WASHINGTON, July 4 (DC Times Online) — Visitors heading to Washington, D.C., for the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations are finding holiday plans disrupted by dangerous heat, with the Great American State Fair on the National Mall closing for several hours and the city’s Independence Day parade canceled.
The semiquincentennial events are unfolding as the capital prepares for a National Mall speech by President Donald Trump and a fireworks display over the city, according to Trump’s announcements and event organizers cited in reporting.
Officials and organizers said the fair was temporarily shut Friday afternoon when temperatures approached or exceeded 100 degrees. Philadelphia also canceled its Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade because of the heat, while New York City opened cooling centers and urged residents to check on vulnerable neighbors.
The National Weather Service has warned that extreme heat can be dangerous over the holiday weekend. It advises people to drink water, take shade or air-conditioning breaks, check on seniors and other vulnerable people, and seek immediate medical help for signs of heat illness.
The celebrations are taking place against a backdrop of political polarization, even as cities around the country continue holiday fireworks and public events. For travelers, the most immediate takeaway is to check heat alerts and event notices before heading to the National Mall or other crowded public spaces.
