Independence Day 2024- How Fourth of July celebrations grew over the years

America will be decked out in red, white and blue on Thursday as millions across the nation celebrate the Fourth of July.

This yearly celebration of freedom observed on July 4 often involves cookouts, star-spangled parades, bright firework displays and other patriotic festivities.

Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, but it took a long time to evolve to the widespread celebration it is now.