In photos: Parades, protests and fireworks—How US celebrated its Independence Day

Surrounded by military flyovers, Trump declared, “Promises made, promises kept, and we’ve kept them.” (AP Photo)

Trump signed the multitrillion-dollar reconciliation bill from a temporary desk on the South Lawn, following its narrow passage in the House on July 3. (AP Photo)

B‑2 stealth bombers roared overhead in a ceremonial tribute Trump said honoured “the recent military campaign in Iran. (AP Photo)

A day earlier in Iowa, Trump kicked off the America250 campaign ahead of the United States’ 250th year of independence in 2026. (AP Photo)

Thousands gathered in Des Moines for a rally marked by patriotic performances, fireworks, and Trump’s promises of a “big, big celebration.” (AP Photo)

At the same Iowa rally, Trump announced plans for a UFC fight on the White House lawn as part of the Semiquincentennial festivities. (Photo: Kristi Noem/ X)

A UFC spokesperson later confirmed the plan to The Athletic, saying the event is being planned for the White House grounds during the 2026 celebrations. (AP Photo)

Members of the US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps perform during Fourth of July festivities at the National Archives, Washington. (AP Photo)

Fireworks burst on the National Mall above the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and the US Capitol building. (AP Photo)

The Fourth of July is a celebration of all things American with parades, backyard barbecues and the night sky lit up with fireworks. (AP Photo)

But this Independence Day, there were protests planned against Trump’s polices. In places like Southern California, where immigration raids have rattled communities, some July Fourth celebrations were cancelled. (AP Photo)

Prospective US citizens look on during a naturalisation ceremony during an Independence Day observation at Locust Grove, a national historic landmark, in Louisville, Kentucky. (AP Photo)

Members of the US Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps stand before performing at Fourth of July festivities at the National Archives, in Washington. (AP Photo)

Donald Trump welcomed Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old dual American-Israeli citizen, to the White House on Thursday. (AP Photo)

Alexander was held hostage by Hamas for nearly 600 days before his release in May. During their meeting, Trump praised Alexander’s resilience and thanked him for sharing his story. (AP Photo)

Among the activities announced or proposed for the yearlong America250 initiative are A Great American State Fair, described by Trump as a “unique, one-year exhibition featuring pavilions from all 50 states.” (AP Photo)

A Great American Road Trip is also expected, announced by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, that will highlight popular travel routes, historic landmarks and scenic destinations in all 50 states. (AP Photo)

A student writing and art contest is planned, asking “What does America mean to you?” (Photo: White House/ X)

In addition to this, a nationwide storytelling project, a volunteerism initiative, and a traveling tech expo are also planned or proposed. A full calendar of the events has not yet been released. (AP Photo) — With contributions from Prachi Mishra, Intern at The Indian Express