This Obama-era policy is over.
On February 14, South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden announced that Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has approved the return of fireworks at Mount Rushmore for the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. This decision is a major win for conservatives and patriots who value the longstanding tradition of celebrating American pride at one of the nation’s most iconic landmarks.
In addition to this exciting development, Governor Rhoden extended an official invitation to former President Donald Trump, urging him to join the monumental event. Rhoden emphasized that Mount Rushmore would serve as the centerpiece of the national celebration, which will mark America’s historic semiquincentennial. As the country approaches this milestone, there is no better venue to honor the birth of the United States than beneath the majestic figures of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln.
The return of fireworks to the monument is particularly significant, as it revives a cherished tradition that had been suspended in 2020 due to environmental concerns. Mount Rushmore had hosted annual fireworks displays from the late 1990s through 2009. However, under the Obama administration, the tradition was put on hold due to fears over wildfires and water pollution. In 2020, during President Trump’s administration, the fireworks briefly returned, but President Biden’s administration blocked further displays. Now, with a renewed federal policy, the fireworks will light up the skies again, following hard work between state leaders and the newly made White House Task Force on enjoying America’s 250th Birthday.
This announcement also coincides with a growing movement among conservative leaders to expand the monument’s legacy. At the beginning of the year, Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna brought forward a bill to add President Trump’s face to Mount Rushmore, claiming his massive impact on the country during his presidency.
Governor Rhoden, thrilled by the development, shared his excitement on social media, writing: “Just talked with Burgum. He verified that we are going to have FIREWORKS on Mount Rushmore for the U.S.’s 250th birthday!” In his formal invitation to President Trump, Rhoden remarked, “We are ready for the largest birthday party ever for America, and Mount Rushmore is the perfect spot for it.”
As the historic site readies for its first fireworks show since 2020, the anticipation continues to grow. With America’s 250th birthday on the horizon, Mount Rushmore is poised to stand as a symbol of American exceptionalism, patriotism, and pride in our national heritage.