Why US Embassy Will Be Closed on Friday

US Embassy Warns of June 25 Protests Across Kenya. pHOTO/ FILE

The United States (US) Embassy in Kenya has announced that it will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of U.S. Independence Day.

In a notice dated July 2, the embassy informed members of the public that its offices would remain closed for the holiday, which commemorates the United States’ Independence Day.

“The U.S Embassy Kenya will be closed on Friday, July 3rd, 2026, in observance of Independence Day!” read part of the notice.

The embassy added that regular operations will resume on Monday, July 6, 2026, as all routine services, including visa appointments and other consular services, will not be available on Friday.

US Embassy to Close on Friday For Independence Celebrations

The US Independence Day, celebrated annually on July 4, marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when the United States declared its independence from Great Britain.

According to the embassy, this year’s celebrations are particularly significant as the country commemorates the 250th anniversary of its independence.

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Therefore, to celebrate this day, fireworks are probably the most famous part of Independence Day.

Skies across the country explode with colour, with cities like New York, the capital city, Washington DC, and Boston putting on huge displays, often set to music.

Since it’s a federal holiday, many government offices, businesses, and schools are closed, giving Americans time to celebrate with family and friends.

How America Gained Independence

The United States’ journey to independence began in 1775, when the thirteen American colonies went to war against British rule under King George III.

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On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favour of independence from Great Britain. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, it approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence, which was then published.

The Declaration was first read publicly on July 8, 1776, while most delegates signed the historic document on August 2, 1776.

In a letter to his wife Abigail dated July 3, 1776, John Adams predicted that the occasion would be celebrated with “pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations” across the United States. However, the holiday was not officially referred to as Independence Day until 1791.

Later, in 1870, Independence Day was designated an unpaid holiday for federal employees. In 1941, it became a paid federal holiday.

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