The Fourth of July has been celebrated across the nation since 1776. But when — and how — did Americans across the country agree to commemorate the holiday with a fireworks celebration?

The Fourth of July is a celebration of all things American with parades, backyard barbecues and the night sky lit up with fireworks.

On July 4, 1777, the Sons of Liberty set fireworks off over Boston Common and in Philadelphia the Pennsylvania Evening Post wrote “at night there was a grand exhibition of fireworks (which began and concluded with thirteen rockets) on the Commons, and the city was beautifully illuminated.” The tradition stuck.

Online users shared a video showing U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump observing the festivities from a White House balcony.

This event is family-friendly, and absolutely free to attend. This year the celebration will take place on July 4 from 7–10 p.m. Country superstar LeAnn Rimes will headline, and Leslie Odom, Jr., Bell Biv DeVoe, the U.S. Army Field Band Soldiers’ Chorus and Boston Children’s Chorus will also perform.

Richard Gere's sons see fireworks for the "very first time" as they celebrate the 4th of July. The actor shares his two younger sons, Alexander, 6, and James, 5, with wife Alejandra Gere.

Taylor Swift did not return to the Ocean State for an Independence Day party this year. Here's where she went instead.