APPLENEWS - STORY ADD
Disney Celebrates America live updates: Fireworks light up New York City skyline
Follow along as ABC celebrates with 24 hours of programming.
ABC is marking America's 250th anniversary with 24 hours of unparalleled programming called "Disney Celebrates America."
The multi-platform broadcast, led by ABC News "World News Tonight" anchor David Muir, features coverage across all 50 states and runs through the night of July 4.
Key Headlines
250th celebration begins with rare look from Statue of Liberty's torch
"World News Tonight" anchor David Muir kicked off ABC News' celebration of America's 250th birthday by climbing up through Lady Liberty's right arm to reach the torch, standing over 300 feet in the air.
A look at celebrations leading up to 250th anniversary in US -- and around the world
From the National Mall in Washington, D.C., to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, here's a look at preparations and festivities for the United States' 250th birthday.
Guests encouraged to prepare for heat at concert at US Capitol
Due to the extreme heat, gates will open at 7 p.m. Friday for the 8 p.m. Capitol Fourth Concert at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., police said.
The heat index -- what temperature it feels like with humidity -- was forecast to hit a scorching 113 degrees in D.C. on Friday.
"To ensure a safe concert, all guests are strongly encouraged to bring an ample supply of water," Capitol police said. "Non-glass water bottles and coolers are allowed."
In Philadelphia, the Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade set for Friday has been canceled due to the dangerous heat wave, according to Philadelphia ABC station WPVI.
What to expect
The coverage kicks off at 10 p.m. ET on Friday, July 3 with an unforgettable landmark, artistic event transforming the public's experience of the Statue of Liberty with the Consulate General of France and Muir taking viewers along for a rare look inside of Lady Liberty.
As the clock strikes midnight on Saturday, July 4, ABC News will bring audiences to the first parade in the nation in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
"Good Morning America" will have a special three-hour show which will include co-anchors Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos and Michael Strahan sharing their own American journeys.
After "GMA," ABC News anchors and correspondents will welcome viewers to the 7 Wonders of America and cities across the country, showcasing the majestic geography, cultural heritage and pivotal moments that define 250 years of American history, along with celebrations, performances and interviews with leading newsmakers.
In the afternoon, ESPN will air the finals of The Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, with champions Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo set to return to Coney Island to seek a new world record.