OnPolitics: Happy July 4th! Here's how the White House has celebrated Independence Day

Hey OnPolitics readers! How are you celebrating July 4th today? Since 1801, the White House has held Independence Day celebrations on its South Lawn. Activities have evolved over two centuries, including when former President James K. Polk first introduced fireworks to the event in 1845.

Today’s presidential celebrations look a little different compared to the first observance held by former President Thomas Jefferson, which included horse races and cock fights on the north grounds of the President’s Park, the USA TODAY Network's Maya Marchel Hoff reported.

Here's a look at how some recent presidents have celebrated July 4th:

🎆George W. Bush: During his presidency, former President George W. Bush continued long-held Fourth of July traditions at his White House celebrations, which featured cookouts and fireworks displays. He also attended a naturalization ceremony at Monticello in 2008, where more than 70 people from 30 countries were welcomed as new citizens.

🎶Barack Obama: 2009-2016: Former President Barack Obama’s Independence Day celebrations were marked by star-studded concerts at the White House to honor military families and veterans. Obama’s 2015 White House Independence Day concert for military families featured a performance by musician Bruno Mars.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

⭐Donald Trump: 2017-2020: Straying from cookouts and concerts on the White House South Lawn, former President Donald Trump held his first “Salute to America,” a day-long celebration featuring parades near the National Mall, flyovers and a televised speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

🥁Joe Biden: 2021- 2023: When he assumed office, President Joe Biden followed long-held traditions during White House Independence Day celebrations, hosting the “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, U.S. Army Band, U.S. Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, U.S. Navy Band, and U.S. Air Force Band.

Read more:Red, White House & blue: What past presidential July 4th celebrations looked like

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