Imagine booking a flight to see your family, only to find out the sky is closed for a party. This is the reality for thousands of travelers this summer.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) will halt all flights on the afternoon and evening of July 4. The airport needs clear skies for the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Military jets and massive fireworks will take over the air instead of passenger planes. Authorities say the rehearsals and shows are too big to share the sky with regular flights.

Travelers are being told to move their trips to Dulles or BWI. This will likely cause a huge mess at those other airports as they try to handle the extra people.

What the evidence shows

• Closure starts at 12:00 PM on July 4.
• Zero flights will land or take off during the shutdown.
• Thousands of flights will be canceled or moved.
• Airspace is reserved for military shows and rehearsals.
• Travelers must rebook through Dulles or BWI.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Is a party worth the mess it makes for regular people? We all love a good show, but shutting down a major hub shows where our leaders' priorities sit.

Should the government be able to stop your travel plans for a celebration? This move forces us to ask how much we are willing to give up for a national event.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

If you have a ticket for that day, you need to move it now. Dulles and BWI will be packed, so expect long lines and high prices for the few seats left.

This shutdown will ripple across the country. A delay in D.C. often means a delay in New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

1. How much money will airlines lose because of this?
2. Will ticket prices spike at other nearby airports?
3. How many people will end up stranded without a way home?