President Donald Trump officially launched the America250 celebrations with a large rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., marking the beginning of weeks of events commemorating the United States' 250th anniversary.
The rally featured military bands, patriotic music, and a flyover involving fighter jets and stealth bombers. Addressing supporters, Trump declared that the country had experienced a dramatic turnaround under his leadership.
“Tonight, as we stand on the edge of our 250th year of independence, I am thrilled to declare that America is back,” Trump told the crowd.
He later added that the United States had gone from being a “dead country” to “the hottest country anywhere in the world,” while highlighting his administration's policies on immigration, the economy, drug prices, and foreign affairs.
During the speech, Trump also pointed to recent developments involving Iran and Venezuela, telling supporters that the Middle East was moving toward peace after years of instability.
Concert Cancellations and a Shift to a Political Rally
Trump's appearance became the centerpiece of the event after several musicians withdrew from the planned Great American State Fair concert series.
Artists including Martina McBride, The Commodores, Young MC, and Bret Michaels canceled their performances, with some citing concerns over the event's association with the White House and the Trump-linked organization Freedom 250.
In response, Trump canceled the broader concert lineup and promoted what he called “the Greatest Rally, EVER!” on social media.
The event still featured performances by Lee Greenwood and tenor Christopher Macchio, while country singer Alexis Wilkins also joined the program.
A Massive State Fair Across the National Mall
One of the largest attractions of the celebration is the 16-day Great American State Fair, running from June 25 through July 10 across the National Mall between the United States Capitol and the Washington Monument.
Organizers say all 50 states and U.S. territories are being represented through exhibitions, cultural displays, food, and entertainment.
UFC Event on the White House Lawn
As part of the broader America250 festivities, Trump also celebrated his 80th birthday and the nation's anniversary with an unprecedented Ultimate Fighting Championship event on the White House lawn.
Thousands of spectators attended as American fighter Justin Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria in the main event.
UFC president Dana White and several Trump administration officials were also present.
Record-Breaking Fireworks Planned for July 4
Freedom 250 is also organizing an expanded Independence Day fireworks show in Washington.
According to organizers, the display will feature more than 860,000 fireworks over approximately 40 minutes, with the goal of surpassing the record set by the Philippines in 2016 for the world's largest fireworks show.
Celebrations Across the Country
America250 events are being held nationwide.
In Times Square, a ceremonial ball will drop multiple times to represent America's time zones.
In Philadelphia, organizers plan to bury a time capsule that will remain sealed until 2276.
In Los Angeles, a major concert is scheduled at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Block parties and local celebrations are planned in cities including Milwaukee.
Controversy Over Washington Beautification Projects
In preparation for the anniversary, Trump also launched several beautification projects around Washington, including renovations at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
Workers painted portions of the historic pool blue as part of a restoration effort intended to address leaks and improve the site ahead of the celebrations. However, the project drew criticism after paint reportedly began peeling and algae appeared, forcing officials to drain the pool again.
Trump blamed the problems on vandalism, while critics questioned whether the changes were appropriate for a protected historic landmark.