The United States is today marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The celebration of the Fourth of July honours the signing of the American Declaration of Independence by the country’s founding fathers on this day in 1776, when the 13 American colonies formally declared their independence from British rule.

The historic milestone, known as the Semiquincentennial or America 250, will be commemorated with nationwide celebrations, including parades, military flyovers, concerts, historical re-enactments and fireworks displays. Major events are lined up in Washington DC and Philadelphia, where the Declaration was adopted.

Observed as a federal holiday, Independence Day is among the United States’ most significant national celebrations, with Fireworks becoming one of its defining traditions. Major cities will be hosting elaborate fireworks displays that attract thousands of spectators, while smaller communities organise local events.

On the occasion, President Donald Trump announced pardons for 11 people, including a former business partner of Washington lobbyist Jack Abramoff and nine individuals convicted in cases related to bypassing vehicle emissions control systems.