US marks 250th birthday with fireworks, flyovers and extreme weather

July 5, 2026

The United States celebrated its 250th anniversary on July 4th with nationwide festivities that were significantly disrupted by severe weather conditions. President Trump delivered a delayed speech at Washington DC's National Mall after thunderstorms forced evacuations, promoting political themes and declaring "the American dream is back" before massive fireworks displays that concluded after midnight. The celebrations drew criticism as Trump created a competing private events committee called Freedom 250 alongside the congressionally-established America 250 commission, with critics accusing him of politicizing the historic milestone.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
Attendees at the National Mall rally in Washington DC, including Tammy Wapshott from South Carolina
Approximately 400 members of the white nationalist group Patriot Front
Communities across the United States participating in "America's Block Party"
Members of Congress gathering in Philadelphia
Performing musicians including Ne-Yo, Mary J Blige, The Smashing Pumpkins, Chaka Khan, Christina Aguilera, and Will Smith
New citizens participating in naturalization ceremonies at Mount Vernon, Virginia
America 250 commission organizers (congressionally established)
Freedom 250 committee (Trump's privately funded group)

What action is being taken

Fireworks displays and flyovers are taking place across the country
President Trump is delivering a speech at the National Mall
A concert is being held in Washington DC
Musicians are performing at various locations nationwide
White nationalist group Patriot Front members are marching through Washington DC streets
America 250 organizers are burying a time capsule containing items like a Coca-Cola bottle and signed Constitution
Naturalisation ceremonies are being conducted at Mount Vernon
Guests are being evacuated and asked to seek temporary shelter due to thunderstorms

Why it matters

This is a significant historical milestone marking 250 years since the thirteen US colonies declared independence from British rule in 1776. The celebrations have become politically contentious, with Trump being criticized for making himself central to the commemoration and creating a competing private events committee that politicizes what should be a unifying national anniversary. The disruption of celebrations by extreme weather conditions also highlights ongoing environmental challenges facing the country. The presence of white nationalist groups marching in the capital during national celebrations raises concerns about extremism and national unity at this historic moment.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC