Independence Day, also called Fourth of July, is America's annual celebration of nationhood.

The holiday commemorates the Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It's a time to come together as Americans to honor our revolutionary history —  and our military — through parades, concerts filled with patriotic music, and awe-inspiring fireworks.

Regardless of how you plan to spend the day, we urge our readers to take some time to reflect on the many sacrifices our brave men and women — both those in uniform as well as civilians — have made these past 250 years to keep our nation free.