The Fourth of July is a time for American pride and celebrations. The date's significance goes back to 1776, with celebrations honoring that day occurring as early as the first anniversary in 1777. Celebrations hundreds of years ago provide the foundation for today's parades and parties. 

History of the Fourth of July 

This federal holiday was established officially in 1941, but its roots go back to the American Revolution. This war was also called the United States War of Independence and the American Revolutionary War, which occurred between 1775 and 1783. 

The British government was, at the time, making laws and taxing the new colonists in America, which was unacceptable to some. They tried to find common ground, but an agreement could not be reached. Fighting had been occurring sporadically but broke out in earnest in 1775, with revolutionaries wanting a complete separation from Britain. 

Outlining their desires and formally dissolving their reliance on Britain, the Declaration of Independence was approved on July 4, 1776. Setting the date was important for the United States of America – although that name wouldn't come until later that same year. 

While the Declaration of Independence was a remarkable statement, it didn't lead to immediate "freedom" as the war was still raging and would continue until 1783, even though the critical victory at the Battle of Yorktown happened in 1781. While the war was going on and the fate of the colonies was unknown, the 4th of July celebrations had already begun. The original celebrations often included a mock funeral for King George III, concerts, bonfires, parades, and the firing of cannons or guns. 

Massachusetts was so certain of a victory that it became the first state to declare the Fourth of July as an official state holiday in 1781, even before the Battle of Yorktown.  

Early Fourth of July Celebrations 

The first Independence Day celebration in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777, was considered a spontaneous celebration. It included a cannon firing a 13-gun salute, fireworks, bonfires, lit candles in windows, a band, and people lining the streets cheering. John Adams wrote to his daughter and explained that much drinking was going on also. 

4th of July Parades and Fireworks 

Parades have long been associated with Fourth of July celebrations and many other festive occasions. They're a chance for people to take to the streets, be entertained, and share an experience for the senses together. 

Interestingly, in Bristol, Rhode Island, in 1785, a 4th of July parade was held. Since then, that city has maintained the celebration, and it is the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in this country. 

The largest 4th of July celebration is held in New York City with Macy's 4th of July Fireworks as five barges launch 60,000 shells in 2023. This is the major retailer's 47th edition of Independence Day fireworks. This year's spectacle will feature many patriotic songs timed to coincide with the skyline spectacle. 

Lapel Pins to Celebrate the 4th of July 

One way you can celebrate the Fourth of July holiday is through lapel pins. Lapel pins have been used for hundreds of years as decorative pieces, celebrations and honorary items, a way to show affiliation, and collector's pieces. 

Military lapel pins first cropped up in the United States during the Civil War to recognize and identify which unit the soldier belonged to. Between the Civil War and World War I, the meaning of lapel pins evolved, and they became a symbol of status or a way to recognize someone. 

Today, wearing military medals is one way to celebrate your service to the military. Still, lapel pins can be a way for everyone to show their American pride and their support of the U.S. Military. Here are some ways we at PinMart bring you the best lapel pins for the Fourth of July. 

Engravable Lapel Pins

Our large collection of engravable pins can be customized to support individuals, groups, or causes. They can also be used as marketing materials, featuring a patriotic image and your company brand or logo. We also carry officially licensed pins that spotlight different military groups with their insignia. This is a fantastic way to show your patriotism on the Fourth and beyond. Each one uses a beautiful cloisonne process for a crisp finish that's very endurable. 

Enamel Lapel Pins 

If you don't want to customize a pin but want to start celebrating and collecting, our large collection of enamel pins will get you started. We have more than 100 American flag pin options to get you started with the choice to add a logo, select different shapes, show support for specific organizations or groups, pair a U.S. flag with your state flag, and show a bit of your personality.

 3D Cast Lapel Pins 

Add a sculptural element to your lapel with our customizable 3D cast pins. These pins give you an outstanding level of detail and depth and come with various finishes. Transform your vision into a wearable work of art that supports independence with your creative vision. These are easily collectible and become treasures for the holidays and beyond.

 Wood Lapel Pins 

Try a different approach with a practical wood pin, adding a natural touch to your lapel display. Our customizable wood pins are eco-friendly, and we've teamed up with OneTreePlanted. For every custom wood pin order, we give a donation that goes toward planting a tree. This option is a win-win that celebrates the history of independence while supporting the future. 

No matter which lapel pin you pick, getting a bulk order and passing them out is sure to amplify all patriotic celebrations, and it invites others to get in on the festivities. These small tokens of patriotism quickly become collectible pieces worn long after the fireworks have dimmed and pulled out yearly to be displayed repeatedly. If you're interested in celebrating with a lapel pin or any of our commemorative and customizable items, call us at 1-877-746-6279 or 1-877-PINMART, and we'll be happy to walk you through the order process.