The United States is celebrating the 237th anniversary of independence from British rule.
Americans traditionally celebrate the Independence Day holiday with parades, picnics, fireworks, sports and concerts. Fourth of July decorations feature the colors of the American flag - red, white, and blue.
In New York, the Statue of Liberty re-opened for the first time since Hurricane Sandy struck in October. The 93-meter statue was not damaged in the storm, but the island it sits on was devastated.
In a July 4th address, President Barack Obama urged Americans to live up to the words of the Declaration of Independence. He said in "1776, a small band of patriots declared that we were a people created equal - free to think and worship and live as we please. It was a declaration heard around the world."
Later, entertainer Barry Manilow leads a concert and fireworks show on the grassy expanse known as Washington's National Mall.
Americans traditionally celebrate the Independence Day holiday with parades, picnics, fireworks, sports and concerts. Fourth of July decorations feature the colors of the American flag - red, white, and blue.
In New York, the Statue of Liberty re-opened for the first time since Hurricane Sandy struck in October. The 93-meter statue was not damaged in the storm, but the island it sits on was devastated.
In a July 4th address, President Barack Obama urged Americans to live up to the words of the Declaration of Independence. He said in "1776, a small band of patriots declared that we were a people created equal - free to think and worship and live as we please. It was a declaration heard around the world."
Later, entertainer Barry Manilow leads a concert and fireworks show on the grassy expanse known as Washington's National Mall.
