1777 was the first year fireworks were used in an official Fourth of July celebration. Congress authorized using fireworks to help mark the first anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
There was an estimated 2.5 million people living in the 13 colonies on July 4, 1776.
Fourth of July became a federal holiday in 1870.
China is credited with the invention of fireworks. Italy was credited for making fireworks bright and beautiful by discovering the use of metallic powders to create desired colors.
86 places in the U.S. have “independence,” “liberty,” “freedom,” or “eagle” in their names.
61% of Americans will attend a July 4th picnic.
In 2020, an estimated $76.49 would be spent per person on July 4th food items.
150 million hot dogs are consumed each July 4th.
74 is the record number of hot dogs eaten in 10 minutes by Joey Chestnut in 2018.
Costs $25,000-$100,000 to host a municipal fireworks display.
$5 million is the minimum insurance coverage recommended for fireworks shows.
65% of Americans say fireworks shows are their favorite July 4th activity. Followed by 32% of people saying food, and 28% of people saying going to the beach.
Massachusetts is the only state that bans all consumer fireworks.
In 2020, it was estimated that 28% of Americans would purchase patriotic merchandise.
