Independence Day: Here’s How These Countries Celebrate July 4 – Travel Noire

Numerous nations proudly will display the stars and stripes and adorn themselves with red, white and blue face paint as the United States honors its national independence on July 4.

Due to the significant influence and global presence of the United States, expatriate communities and American embassies worldwide organize events to commemorate this day in various countries. Additionally, some countries celebrate US independence day on July 4 each year

If you choose to travel on the July 4, you can be confident that locals will be commemorating the day when America declared independence from Great Britain in 1776.

Denmark

Photo credit: Markus Wrinkler

One of the most significant Fourth of July celebrations outside the United States occurs in a small rural town called Rebild, located in northern Denmark.

Rebildfest, a century-old event, is attended not only by local American expatriates and Danish Americans, but also by renowned Americans. Some of the previous visitors included former U.S. presidents and Hollywood actors. The festivities include fireworks, Danish-style open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød), American hot dogs, American music and various activities that honor both the United States and Denmark.

Ireland

Photo Credit: Lukas Kloeppel

In Ireland, there is a shared enthusiasm for Independence Day. The Irish-American connection dates back to Christopher Columbus. Additionally, many American presidents claim Irish heritage. New Ross in Ireland hosts one of the largest Independence Day festivities. The event includes the reading of the Declaration of Independence, shopping, food sampling, live music and a recreation of the Boston Tea Party.

Norway

Photo Credit: Tobias Bjørkli

Norway also embraces the Fourth of July with an annual American Festival in the Lister district. This event features Elvis impersonators, classic American vehicles, delicious barbecues and celebrations in Frogner Park in Oslo. The park is home to a memorial honoring former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln.

Australia

Photo credit: Unsplash

Australia, as one of the United States’ closest allies, demonstrates its respect by celebrating the Fourth of July with fervor. American expatriates and locals gather in cities, where bars and restaurants host parties and serve American cuisine. Sydney’s Surry Hills is known for its American-style restaurants.

Philippines

Philippines Flag
Photo credit: Krisia

In the Philippines, while the Fourth of July is observed, the patriotism displayed is not as prominent. This day holds significance because it marks the Philippines’ independence from the United States. After the Spanish-American War, Spain ceded control of the Philippines to the United States, which lasted until 1946. The Philippines fought for independence during the subsequent Philippine-American War, and independence was officially declared by former U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt.

Later, June 12 was chosen as the official day of independence celebrations. The city of Manila hosts the nation’s Independence Day celebrations, which includes raising the Filipino flag and a grand parade.