Happy Birthday, America!

July 4, 2026 was the United States of America’s 250th birthday celebration. Across the country, and across the world, people everywhere celebrated the milestone birthday of our nation.

The Fourth of July, American Independence Day, has always been one of my favorite holidays. In honor of USA 250, I wanted to share a few things that I love most about our nation.

1. The history

I adore American history, and it is so diverse. From people with normal backgrounds who changed the world (George Washington, the Wright brothers and Clara Barton for example) to people of high affluence who either fell from grace or are almost forgotten by many who don’t study history (Benedict Arnold, Aaron Burr and Douglas Macarthur). There is no shortage of fascinating stories from the beginning of the U.S. to now.

2. American freedoms

This may seem obvious, but something we often take for granted. America has freedoms so few countries can experience: freedom of the press, of speech and religion. We have the rights to own property and defend ourselves and protest what we feel is unjust. Very few other places in the world allow for their people to speak freely against elected leaders or practice any religion of their choice.

3. You can stay in the U.S. and still see every climate and landscape

Tropical? Hawaii. Mountains? Colorado. Desert? Arizona. Beaches? Southern coast. Tundra? Alaska. Forests, prairies, valleys, snow, hurricanes, tornados, earthquakes and everything in between.

4. The variety of people

All walks of life from across the globe call the U.S. home and each state seems to have its own culture and personality, which truly creates a variety like no other!

5. American pride

American pride is something that cannot be compared to. Americans everywhere display the American flag on clothes, accessories, jewelry, stickers, vehicles, decor and just about anything else you can think of.

6. American competition

It is said that America’s favorite sport is competition. It doesn’t matter if it’s the World Cup or a knitting competition: if there’s American representation, you can bet that people from across the U.S. are cheering them on.

7. The unique cuisine

Midwest hot dish, southern barbeque, East Coast seafood — you can get just about anything, but Americanized. Additional bonus points are also given if it involves ranch!

From sea to shining sea, there is so much to be proud of in the United States. Even if no country is perfect, USA 250 is the perfect time to reflect on what really makes this nation great, including some of the best aspects this country has to offer.

Happy birthday, America!