What Independence Day Means in Lexington

July 4th is an important day for all of America, and especially in the town of Lexington, where the American Revolution began.

What Happened on July 4th, 1776?

In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, which announced the colonies’ separation from Great Britain. While the Congress made its Declaration of Independence on July 2, 1775, it wasn’t adopted until July 4th, and the Liberty Bell at Independence Hall rang out, signaling America’s freedom. Congress officially made July 4th a holiday in 1870. 

Lexington Had Been Fighting for America’s Freedom from the Beginning

On April 19, 1775, the Battles of Lexington and Concord marked the beginning of the American Revolution, as colonists fought for their freedom from British rule. While the Battle of Lexington was not a strong win for the colonists in a traditional sense, as the Lexington militia suffered eight casualties just from the first battle, it showed a testament to the colonists’ strength and endurance. When the British soldiers made their way back to Lexington after retreating from Concord during the battle, they were ambushed by militiamen, finally securing the colonists’ victory and marking a turning point for the American Revolution. 

Lexington Independence Day Events to Check Out

4th of July Carnival

The Lexington Lions will host the annual Fourth of July Carnival at Hastings Park from July 2, 2025, through July 6, 2025. The festival will feature rides, games, and all the classic carnival food favorites. The carnival will begin with a fireworks display on July 2, 2025.

Freedom in All Its Forms- A Lex250 Band Concert by MetWinds

Join the MetWinds, guest Conductor Meghan MacFadden, and the town of Lexington on July 10, 2025, at Hastings Park for the Freedom in All Its Forms concert. The performance will reflect on America’s continuing quest for freedom from the first shots of the Revolutionary War to today.  Bring a blanket and a picnic to enjoy the nice weather while listening to beautiful music.

The concert will include the following musical compositions:

• Variations On America by Charles Ives
• American Labor Songs by Kimberly Archer 
• Bravado by Gala Flagello

Come to Lexington this year to celebrate America’s independence! We wish everyone a happy July 4th.