The White House has announced a series of patriotic events to mark America's 250th Independence Day weekend. The celebrations will kick off with a return to Mount Rushmore, where President Donald Trump will revive one of the most symbolic scenes of his first administration.
Trump last attended a Mount Rushmore fireworks display in 2020, when the landmark hosted its first official fireworks show since 2009. The president issued a presidential action in January to honor the history of America, ordering a "grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026."
The nation has thrown a summer lineup of events, including the "Great American State Fair" on the National Mall. Trump kicked off the fair on June 24 by hosting a rally the night before the beginning of the fair, and he is expected to return on Saturday for the "Salute to America" event, where he will take the stage.
Washington, D.C., has been placed under an "Extreme Heat Alert" until Sunday morning, with temperatures predicted to feel like 105°F or hotter. Trump's remarks are expected to begin around 9:00 PM ET, prior to a massive fireworks display on the National Mall that has been touted by the administration as the largest in history.
The National Mall has garnered special attention this year after a string of vandalism against the Reflecting Pool and monuments. The administration has ordered a restoration and repainting of the reflecting pool, which was then met with "razor-blade cuts" to its lining.
Earlier this week, Trump attended the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Library in Medora, North Dakota, where he signed the "Great American Outdoors Act Reauthorization." The legislation centers on previous legislation signed by the 45th and 47th president but renews funding in honor of America's 250th birthday.
