July 4, also known as Independence Day, marks the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the 13 North American colonies officially separated from Great Britain. As the Fourth of July draws nearer, here's a brief rundown of what happened that day in 1776, approximately 249 years ago.

This July 4th, during the Independence Day celebrations, traditional fireworks displays will be on display in several cities

With Independence Day falling on a Friday this year, that sets up weekend-long celebrations that extend the holiday. Here’s a look at four multiday events that continue through the weekend, plus events and fireworks on July 4.