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

Massive fireworks lit up the skyline of multiple American cities, marking festivities across the country. Despite widespread education efforts, thousands of Americans are badly injured by fireworks each year.

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.