On Tuesday, July 4th, the United States' skies will be illuminated by over 16,000 July 4th firework displays, according to the American Pyrotechnics Association, to mark the official birth of the U.S. when the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence.

 

According to the History Channel, Independence Day has been a federal holiday since 1941, but has been celebrated since the beginning with celebrations ranging from parades and concerts to barbecues and pool parties. Yet, fireworks have been a staple in American celebrations of freedom since July 4, 1777, in Philadelphia during the first organized Fourth of July party.

LASN and LandscapeArchitect.com honors the holiday and what the celebration means to millions of Americans.