‘People will be in awe’

Key Points:

• The “Salute to America” event in Washington, DC, celebrating America’s 250th birthday on July 4 will feature thousands of fireworks, over two dozen military flyovers, and a speech by President Trump, with festivities running from early afternoon into the night.
• Military flyovers will include performances by the US Navy Blue Angels, Air Force Thunderbirds, F-22 Raptors, F-35 stealth fighters, and the Army’s Golden Knights parachutists, culminating with a B-1 stealth bomber night pass around 10:36 p.m.
• President Trump is scheduled to deliver a 45-minute speech at 9:45 p.m. from the National Mall, reflecting on America’s history and future while incorporating political commentary and rally-style messaging.
• The fireworks display aims to break the Guinness World Record by launching over 850,000 fireworks across multiple land and river sites, accompanied by a military band playing popular songs from the past six decades.
• For the first time, the Independence Day celebration has been designated a National Special Security Event, with the Secret Service coordinating security efforts amid heightened concerns following a recent foiled drone attack plot; attendees are advised to arrive after 4 p.m. to avoid the heat.