Independence Day, widely known as the Fourth of July, is the premier national public holiday in the United States. It commemorates the historic adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, marking the birth of the nation. Celebrated in mid-summer, this federal holiday features massive public festivals, community closures, and nationwide patriotic events.
US Independence Day 2026, 2027 & 2028
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | July 3 | Fri | Independence Day Holiday | Federal workers; All states except AZ, CA, MA, MS, MT, NE, NV, OR, RI, SD, TX, WV, WI & WY |
| July 4 | Sat | Independence Day | All states; Federal workers | |
| July 6 | Mon | Independence Day Holiday | RI | |
| 2027 | July 4 | Sun | Independence Day | All states; Federal workers |
| July 5 | Mon | Independence Day Holiday | All states; Federal workers | |
| 2028 | July 4 | Tue | Independence Day | All states; Federal workers |
Upcoming Independence Day Calendar Schedule
Because Independence Day falls on a fixed calendar date (July 4), federal holiday rules apply observation adjustments whenever it hits a weekend. Review the upcoming schedule below:
- Independence Day 2027: Sunday, July 4, 2027 (Official federal holiday observed on Monday, July 5, 2027)
- Independence Day 2028: Tuesday, July 4, 2028
How is the Fourth of July Celebrated in the United States?
Independence Day represents the quintessential American summer celebration, blending historical civic honor with outdoor recreational traditions.
Spectacular Fireworks
The definitive tradition of the 4th of July is the evening fireworks display. Major cities and small towns alike host public shows, with the Macy's 4th of July Spectacular in New York City being one of the largest televised events.
Backyard Barbecues & Picnics
Families nationwide gather for warm-weather cookouts. Classic culinary choices include grilling hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob, and baking potato salads, often completed with red, white, and blue desserts.
Parades & Patriotic Concerts
Morning community street parades feature marching bands, historic floats, and military veterans. In the evening, major orchestras host free open-air concerts, traditionally playing John Philip Sousa marches and "A Capitol Fourth."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Under federal employee rules, when a fixed holiday lands on a Sunday, the following Monday is designated as the official paid day off. Government buildings, federal workers, and banks will observe the holiday on Monday, July 5, 2027.
Yes. Unlike Thanksgiving or Christmas, the vast majority of commercial retail corridors, supermarkets, shopping malls, and restaurant networks remain open on July 4th, frequently launching special summer holiday sales.
No, because Independence Day is a designated federal holiday, post offices are closed and regular residential or commercial mail delivery is suspended for the day.
View Holidays by US State
Select your state below to find complete public holiday schedules, school breaks, and official bank closure dates: