Independence Day Facts for Kids
July 4th is a special day in the United States, celebrated as Independence Day. On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, marking the country’s freedom from British rule. Families and friends gather to enjoy fireworks, parades, and barbecues. It’s a day full of fun and patriotism! You can check out all of the Fact of the Day for kids here – Fact of the Day for Kids here. Let’s learn Independence Day Facts for Kids and activity ideas to celebrate this important day.
TEN INDEPENDENCE DAY FACTS FOR KIDS
- The Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776.
- John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, both signers of the Declaration, later became U.S. presidents and both died on July 4, 1826.
- Independence Day became a federal holiday in 1870.
- The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is tapped 13 times every July 4th in honor of the original 13 colonies.
- The first Independence Day celebration took place in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.
- Fireworks have been a part of Independence Day celebrations since 1777.
- The Star-Spangled Banner, the national anthem, was written during the War of 1812.
- Each year, Americans consume about 150 million hot dogs on July 4th.
- The one-millionth visitor to the Statue of Liberty was recorded on July 4, 1886.
- There are 31 towns in the United States with the name “Liberty.”
ACTIVITY IDEAS TO CELEBRATE JULY 4th
Celebrate July 4th with these fun and educational activities. These ideas can be done right in the classroom or school:
- Decorate the classroom with red, white, and blue.
- Create and color patriotic coloring pages (July 4th Coloring Pages).
- Have a word search competition with a July 4th theme (July 4 Word Search).
- Make a timeline of important events in American history.
- Write a letter thanking a veteran for their service.
QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT FOR JULY 4th
Here are some questions to help you think more deeply about Independence Day:
- Why do you think the Declaration of Independence was important for the American colonies?
- How do different states in the U.S. celebrate July 4th?
- What does freedom mean to you?
- Why do we use fireworks to celebrate Independence Day?
- How has the celebration of Independence Day changed over the years?
WOULD YOU RATHER QUESTIONS ABOUT INDEPENDENCE DAY
Here are five questions to spark conversation. Would you rather…
- Watch a fireworks show or a parade?
- Have a picnic with family or a barbecue with friends?
- Visit a historical site or go to a fair?
- Dress up in patriotic colors or decorate your house?
- Learn about American history or make crafts?
MORE FUN STUFF
Here are more fun ideas to help keep the kids entertained: