Trump, VIP Guests and Critics Prepare for July 4 ‘Show of a Lifetime’

President Trump hyped his revamped July 4 celebration as the “show of a lifetime,” as officials sought to ready military equipment and VIP guests for the event amid mounting questions about logistics and costs.

Mr. Trump has overhauled Washington’s traditional festivities to include an event called “Salute to America,” which will feature a presidential speech from the Lincoln Memorial, a display of military equipment and flyovers by military planes. He is also creating a VIP ticketed area that will hold family, friends, government officials, campaign aides and troops.

Critics have demanded to see the price tag for the event, and argue that the president is politicizing what typically is a nonpartisan celebration. But Mr. Trump defended his efforts Wednesday.

“The cost of our great Salute to America tomorrow will be very little compared to what it is worth,” Mr. Trump tweeted. “We own the planes, we have the pilots, the airport is right next door (Andrews), all we need is the fuel. We own the tanks and all. Fireworks are donated by two of the greats. Nice!”

The fireworks—a traditional part of the day, along with a parade and a concert at the U.S. Capitol—are being donated by two private companies. Typically, the cost of the July 4 fireworks is borne by the federal government.

The White House has declined to provide any information about the cost of the events, and the Pentagon has said it wouldn’t have estimates until next week at the earliest. The cost will include staffing roughly 500 ceremonial troops, fueling and transporting airplanes and military vehicles, and other support, defense officials said.

Two 60-ton Abrams tanks and two Bradley Fighting Vehicles will be on display Thursday. There will also be a march of ceremonial troops and flyovers of the Blue Angels demonstration team, F-35 stealth jets and the jumbo jet known as Air Force One when it transports the president.