How Independence Day became a celebration of history and hope
From revolutions to massive fireworks displays, the Fourth of July has evolved into a celebration of history, heritage, and American values.
President Donald Trump will kick off the Fourth of July weekend by giving a speech at Mount Rushmore beneath the busts of his four predecessors.
As part of the celebrations associated with the nation’s 250th anniversary, the president will address visitors to the South Dakota landmark in a keynote address on Friday, July 3 at 8:30 p.m. (Montana) / 10:30 p.m. (ET), according to a schedule released by the White House.
After the president’s remarks, the evening ends with a large fireworks display. The July 3rd fireworks display will be held at Mount Rushmore for the first time since 2020, and Trump attended during his first term as president.
Before the evening festivities, a variety of activities and programs will be held on site for visitors from early in the day. The National Park Service and the state are coordinating the celebration, and the lottery for tickets has now ended.
Here’s what you need to know about when and how to participate in the Mount Rushmore celebration.
What will happen at the Mount Rushmore event on July 3rd?
The July 4 eve event will feature numerous exhibits, reenactments and interactive experiences throughout the day, according to Freedom 250, an organization working with the Trump administration to coordinate the weekend’s events.
The organization said it will turn into a tribute to the nation’s military in the evening, including a military band, high-flying flights and precision training demonstrations.
South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden and Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum will then take to the stage to introduce Trump.
After the president’s greeting, the event will end with a fireworks display.
What time will President Trump speak at Mount Rushmore? View schedule
According to the White House, President Trump is scheduled to give a speech at Mount Rushmore at 8:30 p.m. Montana time (10:30 p.m. ET), but organizers have not yet released a detailed event schedule.
However, the National Park Service said that day’s program will run from 4 to 10 p.m. local time.
Fireworks to conclude the event are scheduled to begin around 9:30 p.m. local time, according to the USA TODAY Network’s Sioux Falls Argus Leader.
Where to see President Trump’s speech at Mount Rushmore
The Mount Rushmore event will be livestreamed on Travel South Dakota’s website.
Melina Khan is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. X Keep up with her at @melinakh and on Instagram @bymelinakhan.
