Extreme heat and the threat of severe weather forced changes to several Fourth of July events in Annapolis and across Maryland; Temperatures in the area reached 100 degrees, with an Extreme Heat Warning in effect through Saturday. In response. Organizers adjusted start times, shortened routes, or canceled events entirely to protect attendees.

Parade and Concert Cancellations in Annapolis

Due to a 70% chance of lightning and thunderstorms between 6 and 10 p.m., Annapolis has canceled the Independence Day Parade and the U.S; Naval Academy Electric Brigade concert, according to WMAR 2 News. Mayor Jared Littmann said the decision was made to prioritize safety, noting that the high chance of lightning posed a risk.

“Cancelling the 4th of July parade and concert was a difficult decision, and one we did not take lightly,” Littmann said; “Our top priority is the safety of our residents and visitors.”

While the parade was canceled, the city’s fireworks show remains scheduled for 9:15 p.m., though officials say it could be delayed, though the parade route was also shortened for the event that was still held, starting from Amos Garrett Boulevard and ending at St. John’s Street, as reported by CBS News. An air-conditioned cooling bus was provided near the intersection of Amos Garrett Boulevard and Constitution Avenue.

Postponements and Adjustments

Other events were either postponed or moved to later dates. The “One Country, Many Cultures: Storytelling & Oral Histories” festival in Annapolis was postponed to July 11. In Prince George’s County, the City of Laurel canceled its Independence Day Parade altogether. Other programming in Laurel began at 6 p.m., with fireworks set for 9:15 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra adjusted its event times, opening gates at 6 p.m. for a 8:30 p.m. concert, followed by fireworks at 10 p.m., according to CBS News. In Washington, D.C., the National Park Service hosted the annual fireworks show on the National Mall, with the display expected to start around 10:30 p.m., lasting 40 minutes — double the usual length — according to Freedom 250, as translated from Spanish by Telemundo Washington DC.

The fireworks in D.C. will launch from 10 points, including the Reflecting Pool of the Lincoln Memorial and eight barges on the Potomac River, according to organizers. The show will feature up to 850,000 shells, with synchronized music and fireworks. Daytime activities, including military flyovers and live music, are also planned, though adjusted for the heat.

Fireworks and Events in Maryland

While Annapolis canceled or postponed several events, fireworks are still a highlight in the region. In Maryland, the city of Columbia in Howard County will host free food trucks, live music, and fireworks at the Lakefront. Residents can claim a spot on the grounds at 3 p.m., with music starting at 6 p.m. and fireworks beginning around 9:20 p.m., as reported by Telemundo Washington DC.

In Baltimore, the Inner Harbor will host a major fireworks display, with the U.S. Navy Band performing at 7 p.m. and fireworks following the music. The best viewing spots include Federal Hill, Harbor East, Fells Point, and Canton. The USS Constellation will also host a deck party with barbecue, beer, and wine, according to Rove.me.

For those looking to watch the National Mall fireworks, the display will be visible from multiple locations, including the Iwo Jima Memorial and the Netherlands Carillon in Virginia. The event will start at 9:09 p.m. and launch from both sides of the Reflecting Pool at the Lincoln Memorial, according to Telemundo Washington DC.

Additional events in the D.C. area include the Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the National Mall from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the National Independence Day Parade along Constitution Avenue from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. The “A Capitol Fourth” concert will return to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, with gates opening at 3 p.m.

While the weather has disrupted some traditional events, organizers are still finding ways to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday. Many events have shifted to cooler times of the day or have been moved to indoor venues. Public safety remains a priority, with organizers adjusting schedules and locations to ensure the health and well-being of attendees.