1. Hawaii Celebrated July 4 Before it Became a State:
July 4 celebrations in Hawaii date back to the 1800s when American whalers and merchants flocked to the islands. Hawaii celebrated the holiday as a United States Territory from 1898 until its statehood in 1959.

2. The Attack on Pearl Harbor Occurred on December 7, the Day President Roosevelt Called "a Date That Will Live in Infamy":
While December 7, 1941, is not July 4, it is significant to note that the attack on Pearl Harbor shook Honolulu to its core. The assault on the U.S. naval base pushed the country into World War II and was the deadliest attack on American soil until September 11, 2001.

3. The U.S.S. Missouri Was Motored to Honolulu for the USA's Bicentennial Celebration:
The battleship was brought to Honolulu on Independence Day in 1986 to commemorate the bicentennial celebration of the signing of the United States Constitution. A special ceremony marked the event, and former President Ronald Reagan delivered a speech to the people of Hawaii.

4. Hawaii Has a Large Military Presence:
On any given day, up to 50,000 military personnel and their dependents are stationed in Hawaii. Celebrating holidays such as Independence Day is particularly meaningful to the men and women who have served or are still serving our country.

5. The Heart of Honolulu Puts on an Extravagant Fireworks Show:
The sky over Oahu is filled with fireworks shows on Independence Day, with Waikiki and Ala Moana Beach Park in Honolulu hosting two of the biggest celebrations. The world-famous beaches are busy with surfers and beachgoers eager to catch a glimpse of the brilliant display.