What to know about July 4th security on National Mall

Administration What to know about July 4th security on National Mall Comments: by Sarah Davis - 07/04/26 11:42 AM ET Comments: Link copied by Sarah Davis - 07/04/26 11:42 AM ET Comments: Link copied

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Security at this year’s Fourth of July celebration on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., will look different from previous years to accommodate a speech from President Trump marking the 250th anniversary.

The iconic annual fireworks show in the nation’s capital was designated as a “National Special Security Event” for the first time ever this year. This rare federal designation is reserved for events of high historical national significance, such as presidential inaugurations and select international gatherings.

The U.S. Secret Service (USSS) is in charge of coordinating the security operations for events under this designation with federal, state and local agencies.

The security measures include 19 miles of anti-scale fencing, 3.5 miles of road closures and 3 miles of closures in the Potomac River, according to CBS News.

The National Nuclear Security Administration will scan for hazardous materials as attendees go through security checkpoints. Prohibited items at this event include backpacks, coolers, folding chairs, drones, firearms or aerosols, according to the USSS. Attendees are permitted a clear bag or small clutch. Blankets and strollers are also allowed.

In addition to security safeguards, the Secret Service emphasized its focus on protecting attendees from extreme temperatures in the Washington, D.C. The city is under an “Extreme Heat Warning” from the National Weather Service, with a heat index value up to 113 degrees on Saturday.

Some of the plans for celebrating America’s 250th anniversary have changed due to extreme weather in the nation’s capital. An Independence Day parade scheduled for Saturday morning was canceled late Friday because of heat concerns. The day’s opening of the Great American State Fair on the National Mall was also delayed.

“The safety and well-being of every guest remains our top priority as we celebrate this historic 250th Independence Day,” USSS said in a statement shared on social media earlier this week.

“In light of current heat conditions, Freedom 250, United States Park Police, National Park Service, the United States Secret Service, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have coordinated closely to adjust event timing and expand cooling resources, water stations, and medical support across the grounds,” the statement continued.

The agency added, “We are proud to welcome the public to a safe, well-prepared, and truly memorable celebration of America’s 250th birthday.”

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