Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington, is celebrating Independence Day with daytime fireworks. These effects will explode into smoky shapes in red, white and blue. The show will be coordinated to music by the National Concert Band of America.

"It seemed like a natural fit for us to have fireworks on July Fourth at one of the most patriotic homes," says spokeswoman Melissa Wood. Since Mount Vernon closes at 5 p.m., it has never been possible to put on a traditional fireworks show. "When we found out there was such a thing as daytime fireworks, we immediately jumped on it," Wood says.

Fireworks will be shot over the Potomac at 12:45 p.m. and last about five minutes. Visitors will be served birthday cake to commemorate the occasion. Look for fireworks in the shape of a "W," which pyrotechnists are attempting to create for the celebration.

Other highlights include a naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, a wreath-laying ceremony and military reenactments.

-- April Umminger (July 3, 2009)