Mount Rushmore Gets a Big Night: President, Fireworks and Weather Drama

South Dakota is ready to host a huge celebration that marks 250 years of the United States. The plan includes fireworks worth about $700, 000 and a visit from President Donald Trump. Earlier this year the governor sent an official invitation hoping to attract national attention. The White House confirmed Trump’s attendance and added a speech by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who used to be the governor of North Dakota. Governor Rhoden will give opening remarks. The event is part of a nationwide anniversary program called Freedom 250. It runs in partnership with the National Park Service, South Dakota state officials and the Department of Interior. Tickets were sold through a public lottery in April; 4, 800 people will be on site while others can watch livestreams. The park itself is closed to the public on July 3, but will open again for Fourth of July celebrations. On that day visitors can enjoy historical reenactments, Native American demonstrations and a performance by the U. S. Air Force Academy Band from 9 a. m. to about 9 p. m. On July 3, gates open at 1 p. m. for ticket holders and the event runs until 10 p. m. Activities include family‑friendly programs, educational displays, reenactments, military band performances, a tribute to all six branches of the U. S. Armed Forces and ceremonial flyovers. The fireworks begin around 9:30 p. m. , accompanied by patriotic music and speeches from Burgum, Rhoden, and finally Trump.

Road closures will affect U. S. Highway 16A and S. D. Highway 244 after 11 p. m. on July 2 through the night, limiting access to Iron Mountain Road and Highway 244 from Keystone. Alternate routes remain open. Environmental officials have cleared the fireworks after a study that found no significant impact on cultural resources, wildlife or wildfire risk. Still, the area is in a severe‑to‑extreme drought zone (D2–D3), which means higher fire danger and limited water. Recent storms have eased the situation only slightly. Weather forecasts predict a 60 % chance of daytime thunderstorms on July 3, some possibly severe, and a 30 % chance at night. Haze is expected in the late morning with temperatures around 81 °F high and 57 °F low. Winds will be calm, under 20 mph. A small tornado risk cannot be ruled out but is considered low. If the fireworks are cancelled, they will not be rescheduled. For those who cannot attend, several TV shows will broadcast live from Mount Rushmore: Fox News’ “Hannity” (7–9 p. m. ), “Special Report with Bret Baier” (4–5 p. m. ), News Nation’s segments, and C‑Span’s 6‑hour coverage starting at 5 p. m. Livestreams are also available on the Travel South Dakota website and at local venues in Rapid City.

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