Known now as a day of patriotism and enjoying time off from work, the Fourth of July began the journey to becoming a quintessential American holiday in 1776, when the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence.

The Fourth of July is about all things American: parades, cookouts, cold beer and, of course, fireworks. Those pyrotechnics remain at the center of Independence Day, a holiday 247 years in the making. Massive fireworks lit up the skyline of multiple American cities, marking festivities across the country.

With the 4th of July on a Friday this year, many are looking forward to a long weekend at the start of the month. Streamers and networks have lined up several specials from musical performances to the annual hot dog eating contest that have become staples in Independence Day programming.