United States: Independence Day celebrations in various cities July 4

Event

Various cities across the United States plan to hold Independence Day celebrations on Tuesday, July 4. The main Independence Day parade is scheduled to take place in the national capital of Washington DC, and is expected to draw a record number of participants. The Washington DC Independence Day parade, which will consist of fife and drum corps, floats, military and specialty units, and celebrities is scheduled to begin on July 4 at 11:45 (local time) at the corner of Constitution Avenue NW and 7th St NW.

All major cities (e.g., New York, Chicago, Miami, Las Vegas, Boston, Philadelphia) are scheduled to hold Independence Day festivities, including concerts and fireworks. Fireworks displays generally begin at sundown,however festivities will likely last for the entire day.

Significant transportation disruptions are expected in the vicinity of the celebrations, and security is expected to be extremely tight given concerns that terrorists could target high-profile events. Additional security is also expected to be deployed at all major airports. Delays at transportation hubs should be expected due to a combination of high traffic and enhanced security checks.

Context

Independence Day is a national public holiday in the United States, and celebrates US independence from the British on July 4, 1776. Although the US has not been the target of a major terrorist attack in the past year, US authorities remain on high alert due to the heightened global terror threat. Several attacks have taken place in major European cities in the past six months, including London and Paris.

Advice

Individuals attending Independence Day parades are advised to anticipate an increased security presence and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to local authorities.