In a blend of national pride, political division, and safety concerns amidst extreme heat waves across the country, the United States celebrated its 250th anniversary on Friday. President Donald Trump headed to South Dakota for a speech and fireworks at Mount Rushmore, while New York City planned a Times Square ball drop to welcome the July Fourth holiday in a New Year's Eve-like fashion. In Washington D.C., the National Mall hosted The Great American State Fair, complete with fighter jet flyovers, $9 lemonades, and $23 turkey legs. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani delivered a speech that highlighted America as a nation of contradictions striving for perfection. As the country grappled with record heat in the Midwest and East Coast, Philadelphia canceled its Independence Day parade, and safety warnings were issued. The National Weather Service forecast peak heat indexes of up to 115 Fahrenheit (46.11 Celsius) across several regions. Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest enjoyed cooler temperatures in the 60s. As the holiday unfolded, it presented an opportunity for self-reflection on the nation's history while highlighting its current political polarization, with events organized by Freedom 250 and America250 groups. Approximately 4 in 10 U.S. adults expressed pride about the anniversary, and roughly 3 in 10 felt excited. The celebrations will culminate on Saturday with fireworks across communities, backyard cookouts, and block parties, including a historically massive display at the National Mall in Washington D.C., where Trump is also scheduled to speak.