NEW YORK — As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day, festivities mark the day the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. While the first observances were informal, marked by celebrations in cities like Philadelphia, the tradition didn’t fully take shape until after the War of 1812. It wasn’t until June 28, 1870, that Congress designated July 4 as a federal holiday.
This year, government offices, courts, and schools will be closed in observance of the holiday, along with U.S. postal services and bank operations. Most stock markets will also pause trading for the day. Transportation services, particularly FedEx and UPS, have announced limited availability for pickups and deliveries on July 4.
Retail activity will vary this holiday. While Costco will shut its doors, many other major retailers like Target and Walmart will remain open, often rolling out special promotions to attract shoppers. Most grocery stores, including Whole Foods, will maintain regular hours, although shoppers should verify hours for their specific locations. For those looking for early holiday deals, Sam’s Club will cater to its members with adjusted hours.
In the midst of the celebrations, travel is expected to surge. AAA spokesperson Adrienne Woodland predicts that approximately 72.2 million Americans will travel domestically between June 28 and July 6, representing an increase of 1.7 million from last year. This number indicates a remarkable rebound of over 7 million travelers compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Of those, around 61.6 million are expected to drive, with an additional 5.8 million opting to fly.
With the holiday coinciding with a Friday, many families are seizing the opportunity for extended weekend getaways. To ensure a safe journey, Woodland advises travelers to take precautions such as conducting pre-trip vehicle inspections to identify potential issues like battery failures or low fuel levels.
As Americans gather to celebrate with family, friends, and fireworks, the spirit of Independence Day remains a reminder of the nation’s history and resilience.