One of the biggest July 4th celebrations outside the US will take place at the official residence of the American Ambassador tonight.
Invitations were issued to 2,500 people for the Independence Day party which will be held in the grounds of Ambassador Richard Egan's official residence and will include entertainment from singer Neil Diamond and a fireworks display. Members of U2 are also expected to be in attendance.
Mr Egan said the scale of the party was in recognition of the level of sympathy shown by Irish people after the September 11th attacks. Businesses closed and books of condolence were signed as the Government announced a national day of mourning.
"We have to thank Ireland for the wonderful support and expressions of sympathy after the terrible events of September 11. The support from here was overwhelming, with queues of people to sign books of condolence at our embassy and the flowers were piled so high you could not see over the gates.
"It was just overwhelming, and we were taken aback in a very positive way," the Mr Egan said.
Politicians from both sides of the border, along with Irish and US business interests, journalists, diplomats, US visitors and expatriates are also expected to attend.
A number of other events are planned for the day including the traditional parade in Dún Laoghaire featuring floats and bands beginning at 7.30 p.m. Traffic restrictions will be in place from 7 p.m.