Happy American Independence Day! On this day in 1776, the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, officially ending British rule. Although the Fourth of July is famously associated with American independence, the Continental Congress voted for freedom on July 2nd. It wasn't until 1870 that the Fourth of July became a federal holiday. In the country's early days, cities hosted concerts, bonfires, and readings of the Declaration of Independence. Today, many Americans gather for baseball games and backyard barbecues. Fireworks are set off across the country to celebrate Independence Day. The tradition began during the first organized celebration in 1777. Happy Independence Day!