Washington, D.C. is preparing for an astounding Independence Day celebration. As the nation marks its 250th birthday, an unprecedented 850,000 fireworks will light up the sky, promising a 40-minute spectacle. This display is shaping up to be the largest in history.

Pyrotecnico, a company known for its expertise in significant events like Super Bowls and concerts, is behind this ambitious effort. Rocco Vitale, president of Pyrotecnico, shared his excitement with CBS News, stating, “it is the biggest show that we’ve done.” His earliest memories of Fourth of July celebrations are deeply rooted in Washington.

The planning for this grand event started in January. Pyrotecnico has been using computer simulations to perfect the fireworks display. Now, they are ready to showcase their work. Vitale revealed that eight barges on the Potomac River are equipped with GPS-enabled communication devices to ensure precise timing during the event.

“Each firing location has a communication device, and its all set on GPS. And once the time of the show is put into the system, it goes at that time,” said Vitale.

The “Salute to America 250 Celebration & Fireworks” is organized by Freedom 250 and will take place on the National Mall. President Trump is scheduled to deliver remarks at 9:45 p.m. Eastern Time. The fireworks will follow at 10:45 p.m. The event expects to attract hundreds of thousands of attendees.

CBS is hosting “The Great American Block Party 250,” a primetime special on July 4. It will be hosted by CBS Evening News anchor Tony Dokoupil and Entertainment Tonight’s Nischelle Turner. The special will feature live musical performances, celebrations nationwide, and coverage of the massive fireworks display over the capital. Watch it at 8 p.m. ET on CBS and stream it on Paramount+ and CBS News 24/7.