At Mount Rushmore for the 4th of July weekend, they held a big America 250 celebration with patriotic programming, presidential reenactors, Indigenous demonstrations, Air Force Academy Band performances, and fireworks on July 3. The National Park Service also scheduled a full Independence Day program on July 4, with events running through the day and a traditional evening program at the amphitheater.

What happened

  • A ticketed fireworks event took place on July 3, with fireworks at about 9:30 p.m. MT.
  • On July 4, the memorial reopened for public programming without reservations.
  • The July 4 schedule included hoop dancing, Lakota storytelling, presidential reenactors, flag folding, autographs, band performances, and a traditional evening program.

Bigger context

  • Coverage from major outlets said President Donald Trump spoke at Mount Rushmore as part of the broader 250th-anniversary celebration, and fireworks returned there for the occasion.
  • Reports also noted the event drew attention because of its political tone and the fire concerns around fireworks in dry conditions.

Simple version

Basically: Mount Rushmore didn’t just have fireworks — it became a full holiday festival with speeches, performances, cultural programs, and a July 4 celebration tied to America’s 250th birthday.

TL;DR: They did fireworks, Trump gave remarks, and the park ran a packed July 4 schedule of patriotic and cultural events.