The Second Continental Congress formally voted for independence from Britain on July 2, 1776 while meeting in Philadephia. On July 4, 1776 it adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence. The declaration was read to communities and celebrations were held. In subsequent years people celebrated the act of independence on July 2, an occurrence wholly approved by John Adams, the second President of the United States. However, eventually July 4 became the date widely accepted as Independence Day. It was not until 1941 that Congress declared the Fourth of July as a federal holiday.

The people of Mount Prospect have always loved a parade. Here are some photographs from the collections of the Mount Prospect Historical Society and the Mount Prospect Public Library which show how Mount Prospect has celebrated the holidays with parades.

Happy Fourth of July however you choose to celebrate it!