Washington: United States President Donald Trump has launched weeks of festivities marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, opening the nationwide celebrations with a high-profile rally on Washington DC’s National Mall.
The event featured military bands, aerial displays by some of the United States’ most recognisable fighter jets and stealth bombers, and a keynote address from Trump, who used the occasion to highlight his administration’s achievements and vision for the country.
The president described the country’s resurgence under his leadership, touching on issues including immigration, economic growth, prescription drug costs, and foreign policy. He also claimed that recent diplomatic efforts could help bring lasting stability to the Middle East.
National celebrations begin
The rally marks the start of a series of events commemorating America’s semiquincentennial, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
A centrepiece of the celebrations is the 16-day ‘Great American State Fair,’ running from June 25 to July 10 along the National Mall. The fair is expected to showcase all 50 states, US territories, and various cultural exhibits, attracting visitors from across the country.
The festivities are being organised by a combination of groups, including America250, a congressionally established commission created to oversee nonpartisan anniversary events, and Freedom 250, a public-private partnership established by Trump.
“Tonight, right here on our National Mall, we are beginning the most unforgettable birthday party any country has ever seen.
This evening, it is my honor to officially kick off the celebration with The Great American State Fair.”
LET’S GO 🦅🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/TwQ98eRVvb
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) June 25, 2026
While supporters view the celebrations as a historic national tribute, critics have raised concerns about potential political influence, particularly because several major events are being organised by groups closely associated with the president.
Concert controversy sparks changes
The anniversary celebrations have already generated headlines after several artists withdrew from a planned concert series linked to the Great American State Fair.
Performers including Martina McBride, The Commodores, Young MC, and Bret Michaels reportedly pulled out after learning of the event’s connections to Freedom 250 and the White House.
Following the cancellations, Trump announced that the original concert plans would be replaced by a large-scale rally featuring speeches and patriotic performances.
Country singer Alexis Wilkins, known for her relationship with FBI Director Kash Patel, was among the performers who remained on the schedule.
UFC event at the White House
One of the most unusual events tied to the anniversary celebrations was a historic Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event held on the White House lawn.
The event, described as the first professional sporting contest ever staged at the presidential residence, attracted thousands of spectators. Trump attended alongside senior administration officials and UFC President Dana White.
The headline fight saw American fighter Justin Gaethje defeat Ilia Topuria to capture the lightweight championship title. During the event, attendees also marked Trump’s 80th birthday. According to organisers, the UFC covered the costs of the event while Freedom 250 coordinated planning and logistics.
Record-breaking fireworks planned
A major highlight of the anniversary celebrations will take place on July 4, when a massive fireworks display lights up the skies above Washington. Organisers say the show will feature more than 860,000 fireworks over approximately 40 minutes, significantly larger than traditional Independence Day displays.
Freedom 250 has reportedly challenged Pyrotecnico, the company producing the event, to surpass the world record for the largest fireworks display ever staged.
Celebrations across the nation
The 250th anniversary festivities extend far beyond Washington. In New York City, Times Square will host a unique celebration featuring multiple ball drops representing different American time zones.
Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, plans to bury a time capsule that will remain sealed until 2276, offering future generations a snapshot of life in America during its 250th year. Los Angeles will host a large-scale concert at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, while community events and block parties are planned in cities across the country.
Reflecting Pool renovation sparks debate
Preparations for the anniversary have also included several beautification projects in Washington ordered by Trump, including renovations to the historic Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The restoration project drew criticism after blue paint applied to the pool reportedly began peeling and algae growth appeared shortly after completion, forcing officials to drain the water feature again.
Supporters argue the work addresses long-term maintenance issues, while opponents have questioned both the project’s cost and its impact on a historic landmark. As America approaches its landmark 250th birthday, celebrations are expected to continue throughout the coming months, blending patriotic commemorations, cultural events, and political debate over how the nation’s history should be remembered and celebrated.
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