Independence Day is always filled with festivities, and one of the many 4th of July traditions that always hold true is fireworks.

The Fourth of July has been celebrated across the nation since 1776. But when — and how — did Americans across the country agree to commemorate the holiday with a fireworks celebration?

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.