The Fourth of July (Independence Day) marks the day the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress in 1776. The declaration allowed the 13 American colonies to gain independence and separate from Great Britain. The Fourth of July officially became a federal holiday in 1870 by Congress. Take a look at our gallery of agencies across the government in celebration of Independence Day!
The United States Air Force Band of the Pacific performs during the Celebrate America festival at Yokota Air Base, Japan. The annual event featured bungee jumping, a climbing wall, games and food booths, live music, and ended with a fireworks display. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe).