A major light display projected onto the iconic Washington Monument to mark America's 250th birthday has ignited a fierce public debate, with many branding the neon spectacle 'tacky' and a disrespectful misuse of a national treasure.
A Monument Transformed into a 'Birthday Candle'
This week, the 555-foot obelisk at the heart of Washington DC's National Mall was transformed by a vibrant light show. The projection, organised by the Trump administration-backed group Freedom 250, aimed to turn the monument into the 'world's tallest birthday candle' for six nights from December 31. The display is set to culminate in a fireworks show on January 5.
The National Park Service confirmed the installation, which featured bright neon imagery including large numbers, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. Freedom 250 stated it was displaying 'marquee national events celebrating the triumph of the American spirit'.
Public Backlash and Political Blame
Despite the celebratory intentions, the design has faced significant criticism on social media and beyond. Many have slammed it as a 'tacky billboard' and a 'cheesy' display, with some directing their ire personally at President Trump.
One dismayed observer wrote online: 'Oh dear. I've really loved the illuminations of the past, but this one truly is tacky. A national monument shouldn't look like a Times Square billboard.' Notably, even a self-described 'three-time Trump voter' expressed doubts, stating: 'I don't know about this. Doesn't seem right for such a serious monument.'
Celebration and Controversy: The Road to 2026
The light show is just the beginning of a full year of festivities planned by Trump's America 250 Task Force, launched on Memorial Day 2025 and running through to July 4, 2026. President Trump marked the anniversary, saying: 'With a single sheet of parchment and 56 signatures, America began the greatest political journey in human history.'
The White House added that the task force aims to encourage citizens to renew their love of American history and 'ignite a spirit of adventure and innovation'.
Further events planned by Freedom 250 include:
- The 'One Nation Under God: National Prayer Gathering' on the National Mall.
- The 'Great American State Fair', slated for June 25 at the mall, promising a coast-to-coast celebration of every state's food and culture.
- The inaugural 'Patriot Games' in the autumn, spotlighting high school athletes.
Not all feedback was negative. Some welcomed the spectacle, with one commentator posting 'WOW!! That is simply beautiful!' and another suggesting the illuminations continue monthly. However, the overwhelming online discourse highlights a deep division over the appropriateness of using sacred national landmarks for such flashy, contemporary displays.
