Despite the high heat and oppressive sun, Independence Day was celebrated at the Mount Vernon Estate on Wednesday. The celebration held multiple events throughout the day. These included a concert by the National Concert Band, daytime fireworks and a ceremony honoring newly naturalized U.S. citizens.

The new citizens pledged their Oath of Citizenship on the grounds in front of the Mount Vernon mansion in a ceremony filled with excitement and gratitude. After the ceremony, patriotic music was performed by the National Concert Band, a group consisting of retired military band members. The day was topped off with daytime fireworks over the Potomac River and free birthday cake.