July 4, also known as Independence Day, marks the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the 13 North American colonies officially separated from Great Britain. As the Fourth of July draws nearer, here's a brief rundown of what happened that day in 1776, approximately 249 years ago.

Friday is July 4th, when America celebrates its Independence Day. Here's a look at what's open and what's closed in Massachusetts. The Fourth of July is a state and federal holiday. That means the post office,

Displays of patriotism were evident at parades and hot dog eating contests, even at a time of deep political divisions among Americans.

The Fourth of July is about all things American: parades, cookouts, cold beer and, of course, fireworks. Those pyrotechnics remain at the center of Independence Day, a holiday 247 years in the making. Massive fireworks lit up the skyline of multiple American cities, marking festivities across the country.

The Fourth of July is a celebration of all things American with parades, backyard barbecues and the night sky lit up with fireworks.