July 4th celebrations mark America's 250th birthday. Follow live updates.

New York City's Times Square embraced a unique celebration for America's 250th birthday, mirroring New Year's Eve traditions with eight distinct ball drops. These events marked the arrival of July 4th in every American time zone, creating a rolling celebration across the nation.

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This is more than a countdown. It's a moment that brings the entire country together, one time zone at a time.

Rosie Rios, chair of America250, the organizing group, described the event as a moment designed to unite the country. The celebrations also support Giving 4th, a charitable initiative.

Meanwhile, Washington D.C. is under a high level of security for its America 250 festivities, which include a major fireworks display anticipated to draw hundreds of thousands. The event is designated a "national special security event," placing the Secret Service in charge. "I will tell you that you've had hundreds, if not thousands, of law enforcement professionals planning this event for several months," stated Tara McLeese, special agent in charge of the U.S. Secret Service's Washington field office.

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I will tell you that you've had hundreds, if not thousands, of law enforcement professionals planning this event for several months.

President Trump is scheduled to speak before the fireworks. Marshals Service Director Gadyaces S. Serralta assured readiness, stating, "Our nation is ready to celebrate the birth of freedom in this country." However, a planned parade in D.C. was canceled due to extreme heat, with forecasts predicting temperatures that could surpass the city's record high for the date.

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Our nation is ready to celebrate the birth of freedom in this country.