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With the Fourth of July just over one week away, now is the time when many Americans will be firming up their plans–or lack thereof–for the upcoming holiday. Over the past year, the percentage of Americans who plan to celebrate has dropped two percentage points to 53%. Although still the majority, this figure represents an eight percentage point drop in participation since 2024, a declining trend that does not show signs of slowing down. Even the upcoming America 250 celebration, which appeals to just over half of U.S. adults, has not garnered more interest in celebrating the Fourth of July this year.
Fourth Interest Falls As Americans Are Feeling Less Patriotic Overall
While there are likely a variety of factors shaping this decline in Fourth of July celebration intent (inflation, economic uncertainty, domestic and international politics), CivicScience data also show that Americans aren’t feeling as patriotic overall. Today, 29% of U.S. adults feel less patriotic compared to this time last year, marking an increase of five points from 2025. This uptrend lags just behind the share who are feeling ‘more’ patriotic now (33%, up four points from last year).
Notably, the data show that this rising pessimism stems from a significant drop in the ‘no change’ camp, which fell nine percentage points as the neutral middle ground gave way to growing disillusionment.
Celebrators Stay Local and Cut Back
For those who are celebrating, keeping costs within reason appears to be a priority as the majority (61%) will be staying local, traveling less than 25 miles for their Fourth of July plans. Additionally, celebrators are slightly more likely to say they’ll be spending ‘less’ on Fourth of July this year than they are to spend ‘more.’ Interestingly though, lower-income Americans lead the way in plans to spend more on the Fourth this year.
When it comes to Fourth of July cookouts, what Americans plan to cook this year provides a potential preview into what may be occupying grills all summer long. Classic favorites like hamburgers and hot dogs remain the ultimate crowd favorites. Chicken holds a strong secondary spot while sausage and pork ribs stand as steady mid-tier options. Notably, summer menus are diversifying, as veggies (23%) are set to outpace choices like brats, pork chops, and pulled pork.
With plans to celebrate the Fourth of July down for another year and feelings of patriotism on the decline, sentiment around Independence Day celebrations seems to be cooling. Among those who are participating, cut backs on travel and spend are more the norm than the exception. Yet, amidst so much change, cookout staples may be one of the few anchors of the holiday, promising familiarity in uncertain times. So while the Fourth of July isn’t going away any time soon, consumer shifts indicate that the day itself may strike a quieter chord this year.
