From sea to shining sea, Americans are coming together to celebrate a major milestone — the 250th anniversary of the nation’s independence. Parades, fireworks displays, and patriotic gatherings are taking place across the country to mark the occasion.
This year’s Fourth of July carries extra significance as the country reaches the quarter-millennium mark, though the celebrations are unfolding amid a sweltering heat wave gripping much of the nation and deep political divisions that continue to define the current moment in American history.
The Associated Press has put together a photo gallery, curated by its photo editors, capturing the sights and spirit of this historic day across the United States.
