Key facts
- An evacuation order was issued for parts of Washington due to storms ahead of President Trump's July 4 speech.
- President Donald Trump delivered remarks at a delayed rally on the National Mall.
- The event featured fireworks, flyovers, and a concert.
- Extreme weather, including a heat wave and thunderstorms, affected celebrations across the US.
- Power outages impacted hundreds of thousands of residents in the eastern US.
The United States celebrated its 250th birthday with a series of events, including fireworks, flyovers, and political rallies, amidst significant weather challenges across the country. President Donald Trump addressed a crowd at the National Mall in Washington for a 'Freedom 250' event, which was delayed by thunderstorms that forced an evacuation of the area.
Trump's speech, delivered before the largest fireworks display in US history, touched on themes of rejecting communism and supporting his favored legislation. He concluded by stating, "this is only the dawn of the golden age of America." The celebration also featured a flyover of the new Air Force One jet.
Throughout the day, Washington experienced temperatures around 100F (37C), part of a larger heat wave affecting the eastern US. Severe weather, including thunderstorms and high winds, led to widespread power outages, affecting nearly 750,000 people in the East and an additional 150,000 in New Jersey. Michigan alone saw over 350,000 homes lose power due to severe weather.
Other July 4th festivities nationwide were impacted by the extreme weather. The National Park Service's Independence Day Parade in Washington DC was cancelled, as were some celebrations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Colorado. Organizers distributed water to attendees on the National Mall before thunderstorms arrived.
In addition to the official celebrations, approximately 400 members of the white nationalist group Patriot Front marched in Washington. Meanwhile, bipartisan 'America 250' events took place across the country, featuring concerts by artists like Ne-Yo and Mary J Blige in New York, and The Smashing Pumpkins and Chaka Khan in Los Angeles. Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence, hosted congressional gatherings and a special flyover.
Traditional events like the Nathan's Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest at Coney Island also took place, with Joey Chestnut winning his 18th title and Miki Sudo securing her 12th in the women's competition. At Mount Vernon, the estate of George Washington, a naturalisation ceremony welcomed 150 new citizens. America 250 organizers also buried a time capsule to be opened in 200 years.
Former presidents shared messages reflecting on the nation's milestone. President Joe Biden emphasized the ongoing work to fulfill the nation's promise of equality, while Barack Obama highlighted the need for each generation to continue the work of perfecting the union. George W. Bush urged Americans to be active citizens, and Bill Clinton commented on the current deep divisions within the country.