The Declaration of Independence, unanimously declared by the thirteen United States of America, was adopted by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776.  The task of getting the document signed began on August 2, 1776.

The first Independence Day celebrations occurred shortly after the declaration in various locales along the Eastern Seaboard. Many of the activities in the initial celebrations have continued until today.

Celebrating the Fourth of July:

Independence Day is celebrated with a wide variety of parties, BBQ's, picnics and the like.  Check out DLTK's USA Section for crafts, coloring, games and more.  Some of the crafts are just for fun while others make cute additions to picnics, parades, etc.

Mary Flynn from Songs4Teachers has kindly provided us with a simple song to learn for Independence Day.

• The American Way  (sung to My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean)

• The Star Spangled Banner (American National Anthem)