WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — A private fireworks display near the Kennedy Center left many Washingtonians confused Thursday night.

The fireworks display was a private event approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. The display was made to establish “a temporary safety zone” for certain areas of the Potomac River near D.C. from “potential hazards” that could be caused by fireworks.

The safety zone is needed to protect people, vessels, and other marine environments, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.