The Fourth of July is about all things American: parades, cookouts, cold beer and, of course, fireworks. Those pyrotechnics remain at the center of Independence Day, a holiday 247 years in the making. Massive fireworks lit up the skyline of multiple American cities, marking festivities across the country.

Dozens of cities across the U.S. will host drone shows on the Fourth of July this year, seeing them as preferable to fireworks. Here's why.

Displays of patriotism were evident at parades and hot dog eating contests, even at a time of deep political divisions among Americans.

Booming fireworks, patriotic parades, and outdoor barbeques have become annual traditions, and many employees enjoy the day off of work for the federal holiday. July 4, also known as Independence Day,

The US celebrates its Independence Day with closures in government services, record-breaking travel forecasts, and festivities nationwide, including fireworks, parades, and barbecues. Retail stores mostly remain open.