The Fourth of July is a celebration of all things American with parades, backyard barbecues and the night sky lit up with fireworks.

As Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and parades, many businesses and services will alter their hours or close altogether for the Fourth of July. As is standard practice, U.S. stock markets will be closed on Friday in observance of Independence Day.

People across the country celebrated Independence Day on Friday, July 4, with the traditional parades, fireworks and cookouts. Others used America's 249th birthday as a chance to protest President Donald Trump and his administration.