Within the past several days over the 4th of July weekend, numerous shark sightings along New York beaches have kept swimmers temporarily out of the water. Officials say they have been monitoring the waters for sharks, including a stretch of Rockaway Beach in Queens where swimmers were temporarily ordered out of the water due to sightings.

Displays of patriotism were evident at parades and hot dog eating contests, even at a time of deep political divisions among Americans.

People celebrate their new U.S. citizenship on July 4, 2025, during a naturalization ceremony on at South Mountain Community College in Phoenix.

Throughout, Independence Day parades and community gatherings are showcasing countless American flags waving, plenty of red, white and blue decore splashed throughout, and patriotic remembrances to mark the Fourth of July holiday.