Madrid lights Puerta de Alcalá in U.S. flag colors for 250th Independence Day

July 4th marks the United States’ Independence Day, and 2026 celebrates its 250th anniversary. The Madrid region decided to honor the milestone by lighting the historic Puerta de Alcalá in the flag’s red, white and blue colors.

Officials announced the plan on their official X account, inviting residents and tourists to the visual tribute. The event underscores the cultural ties between Spain and the United States.