Fireworks at the National Mall will start later than usual this July 4
Julia GomezFourth of July fireworks at the National Mall will start later than usual this year, according to Freedom 250, the organization in charge of putting together the celebration.
On July 4, the fireworks show, which is a part of Salute to America 250 Celebration and Fireworks, will take place at the Washington Monument in Washington, DC, and will begin at around 10:30 p.m. ET and go on for about 40 minutes, according to Freedom 250's website.
In 2025 and 2023, the fireworks show was scheduled to begin at around 9 p.m., NBC Washington previously reported. In 2024, it was also scheduled to begin around 9 p.m., according to a press release from the National Park Service (NPS).
The fireworks show will be preceded by the Joint Armed Forces Orchestra and national speakers.
Here's what to know.
What time does the Salute to America 250 Celebration and Fireworks start?
Doors for the event, which is taking place at the Washington Monument, will open at 1 p.m. ET, when military flyovers and musical performances will begin, according to Freedom 250.
At 7 p.m., the Joint Armed Forces Orchestra and national speakers will take the stage, with the fireworks show set to begin at around 10:30 p.m. and last around 40 minutes.
An event will be broadcast live starting at 7 p.m. ET.
Thousands of fireworks to be launched
During the celebration, 850,000 firework shells will be launched throughout the firework show, which is estimated to last for around 40 minutes, according to Freedom 250.
During the show, fireworks will be launched from the following locations:
- Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
- Eight Potomac River barges
- West Potomac Park
Do you need tickets to attend the event?
The event is free and no ticket is required to attend.
This story has been updated with new information.
Julia Gomez is a Trending reporter for USA TODAY and covers space phenomena, scientific studies and natural disasters. Connect with her on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and TikTok: @juliamariegz, or email her at [email protected].