The United States marked the 250th anniversary of its Independence Day with a grand celebration in Washington, DC, featuring a large fireworks display…
1/9US celebrates 250 years of Independence | The United States celebrated 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776. According to the White House, the anniversary is part of a year-long “Freedom 250” programme that began on Memorial Day 2025 and will continue through the end of 2026, involving government agencies, private organisations and communities across the country. (Image: Reuters)
2/9Thunderstorms delay National Mall event | Severe thunderstorms and lightning temporarily forced the evacuation of the National Mall before the celebrations began. According to media reports, the programme resumed after the weather improved, although many attendees had to undergo fresh security screening before returning to the venue. (Image: AP)
3/9Air Force One joins military flyover | According to ANI, the newly renovated Air Force One led a large military flyover over the National Mall at around 7:03 pm on July 4 despite the earlier weather disruption. The flyover was one of the main highlights of the anniversary celebrations. (Image: Reuters)
4/9Trump’s message on America’s future | During his “Salute to America” speech, Trump described the 250th anniversary as a celebration of freedom and American resilience. He said the United States had been “the hope, the promise, the light, and the glory” among nations for 250 years and added that the country was “stronger, freer, richer, safer and prouder than ever before.” (Image: Reuters)
5/9Tribute to veterans and national heroes | Trump used the ceremony to honour veterans from conflicts including World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He also recognised astronauts, Gold Star families and descendants of key figures in American history, saying the nation’s strength was built on generations of sacrifice. (Image: AP)
6/9Historic American flags displayed | Trump displayed several historic American flags during the event, including one linked to the Revolutionary War. He said the Stars and Stripes had long symbolised the country’s commitment to protecting its freedom and independence. (Image: AP)
7/9Crowds celebrate despite bad weather | Many people remained at the National Mall despite the weather delays. ANI quoted attendee Janice, who said, “America 250 means patriotism. It means a return to the values that most Americans hold dear.” Trump also thanked those who stayed, saying the difficult weather made the evening even more memorable. (Image: Reuters)
8/9Massive fireworks light up Washington | The celebrations ended with a 40-minute fireworks display over Washington, DC. Around 850,000 fireworks shells were launched from 10 locations, including the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, West Potomac Park and barges on the Potomac River. It was one of the largest Independence Day fireworks displays held in the US capital. (Image: Reuters)
9/9Trump calls it the ‘best fireworks show, EVER!’ | After the celebrations, US President Donald Trump praised the display in a post on Truth Social, writing, “Best fireworks show, EVER! President DJT.” The post came after the grand finale of the United States’ 250th Independence Day celebrations in Washington, DC. (Image: Reuters)