Independence Day

Fireworks Downtown Greenville

Image sourced from City of Greenville, NC

Celebrating The Birth of Our Nation

Observed each year on July 4, Independence Day commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This historic event marked the beginning of the United States as a free and independent nation. Pitt County joins the rest of the country in recognizing this day with celebrations, public events, and moments of reflection on the values of freedom, liberty, and unity.

  1. History
  2. Celebrations & Events

Honoring Our Nation's Freedom

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted for independence from British rule. Two days later, on July 4, it formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. As the Liberty Bell rang from Independence Hall in Philadelphia, word of freedom spread throughout the colonies—marking the start of a new nation’s journey.

A Hard-Won Victory

At the time of the Declaration, American and British troops were already at war. General George Washington ordered the document read aloud to troops in New York to inspire hope. The fight for freedom stretched through harsh winters such as the freezing encampment at Valley Forge, where nearly 2,000 soldiers died. But the spirit and hope of independence endured.

After years of battles, and with support from the French, American forces defeated the British at Yorktown in 1781. The Treaty of Paris, signed in 1783, officially recognized the United States as a free and independent nation—after nearly seven years of conflict and sacrifice.

Learn More About the Declaration of Independence Now

Honoring the Cost of Freedom

The cost of America's freedom is remembered across our country. The World War II Memorial’s wall of 4,048 gold stars, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s 58,000 engraved names, and the words “Freedom is not free” at the Korean War Veterans Memorial—all remind us of the sacrifices made.

Even within America's borders, the Civil War claimed over 620,000 lives in the effort to preserve the Union and extend independence and freedom to all Americans.

Lighting Up the Nation

Each Independence Day, fireworks illuminate the sky in celebration, and Americans gather for parades, symbolic gestures, and patriotic gatherings. These traditions have continued for nearly 250 years, echoing the vision of John Adams, who called for “bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other.”

Learn More About the Tradition of July 4th Celebrations Now

As Pitt County joins in these celebrations, we reflect on our nation’s history, honor those who paved the way, and recommit to protecting the independence and freedom we cherish today.