This weekend millions of Americans will be celebrating their independence from our country!

July 4th sees US citizens celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, when 13 colonies broke free from British rule.

In 1783, the Americans were finally officially independent after they defeated our military - with help from France - at Yorktown two years earlier.

A lot has changed since then, with a (sorry) "special relationship" developing between the two countries. It's undeniable that American culture - through history, films, music and so much more - has an influence on many people in the United Kingdom.

So if you want to join in the July 4th celebrations, here's some great suggestions on how to enjoy some classic American food, activities and more:

1 Eat an American hot dog

Big Apple Dogs serves top-quality New York-style hot dogs with free toppings. Big Apple Dogs started up as a mobile cart in Old Street, now you can find them in Euston Station and in Cole and Sons Deli on Caledonian Road. Choose from The Big Dog (double smoked over German beech wood), The Pimp Steak (extra garlic, paprika and pepper) and The Big Frank (extra large frankfurter, paprika, nutmeg and pepper).

www.bigapplehotdogs.com

Yum

2 Watch American Football

The NFL league's popularity in Britain gets bigger and bigger ever year. The London Warriors based in Boston Manor, London play the Blitz Double Header this Sunday 2.30pm at Streatham and Croydon Rugby Club.

Or if you fancy a go yourself, how about a game of American football in Gunnersbury Park, Hounslow?

www.londonwarriorsafc.co.uk/

www.hounslow.info/parks-open-spaces/find-your-park/gunnersbury-park/

Oakland Raiders v Miami Dolphins held as part of NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium
Oakland Raiders v Miami Dolphins held as part of NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium

3 Attend British Library US Independence Day event

The British Library will be celebrating American Independence Day with a morning of live music, food and fun outside on the piazza and throughout the building on Saturday 4th July from 10.30 onwards. Entry is free.

www.bl.uk/

British Library

4 Buy some American Candy

Cybercandy in London has stores in Covent Garden and Camden. Cybercandy is the UK's largest online retailer of American sweets, foods and sodas. Whether you are looking for a Giant Gummi Bear or some limited edition birthday cake M&M's, this store has you covered.

www.cybercandy.co.uk/

Pretzal M and M's

5 Go to a drive-in movie

From the creators of Rooftop Film Club comes Drive In Film Club which returns this summer for a film-filled season of classic, cult and recent releases. All movies are screened in the Pavilion Car park, Alexandra Palace and tickets range from £22. Audio is transmitted via your car radio so all you have to do is sit back and relax. Visit http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/drive-in-film-club-6781914397 for the full listings.

6 Take a trip to Benjamin Franklin House

In the heart of London is the Benjamin Franklin House, the world's only remaining Franklin home. The acclaimed scientist, author and politician - one of the Founding Fathers of the United States - lived in the house for nearly 16 years between 1757 and 1775.

www.benjaminfranklinhouse.org/site/sections/about_house/default.htm

7 Visit the Blues Kitchen

The Blues Kitchen, located in Camden Town and Shoreditch serves American classics and New Orleans soul food. On Saturday July 4 they'll be hosting a Southern Rock special for Independence Day, entry is £5 or free with an American passport.

theblueskitchen.com/camden/whats-on/

8 Drink some American beer

Strongroom bar presents an American Beer festival on Saturday 4th July, Old Street. Hop-packed brewers include Brooklyn, Flying Dog and Sierra Nevada and there will also be American-themed entertainment. Entry is free.

www.strongroombar.com/