Are you planning on celebrating the 4th of July weekend in Washington DC? Good choice!
As our nation’s capital, DC is one of the most patriotic places in the country to celebrate Independence Day. And it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to festivities either.
From parades and fireworks, to concerts and festivals, you are in for a treat if you are going to spend the 4th in DC.
Here is a round up of some of the best events to celebrate our independence in our nations capital…
1. Fireworks
No July 4th is complete without fireworks and there is no better place to be on Independence Day in DC than on the National Mall. The National Mall is home to some of our most famous and iconic national monuments and memorials. The fireworks display is also one of the best there is.
The fireworks are launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and light up the all over the Washington Monument. They are amazing, and not to be missed!
The fireworks usually begin around 9:10 p.m and they last for nearly 20 minutes. Get here early, as you can imagine it is a popular way to celebrate the holiday in DC.
2. National Independence Day Parade
Washington DC is home to America’s National Independence Day Parade, and it is one of the major highlights of the celebrations in DC. The parade kicks off early in the day (at 11:45 am) and is a great (and very popular) way to start off your day of celebrations. It features floats, marching bands from all across the Unites States, military and specialty units, and even some VIP’s.
The parade starts on Constitution Avenue and 7th Street NW and runs to 17th Street. Arrive early and have those flags at the ready.
3. A Capitol Fourth Concert
One of the big 4th of July traditions in DC is a free live concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. The concert is open to the public (you don’t need a ticket) and includes live performances of patriotic music by the National Symphony Orchestra and many other artists. The concert starts at 8pm, with admittance to the West Lawn starting at 3pm.
The concert is followed by the fireworks display over the Washington Monument.
4. Smithsonian Folklife Festival
The Smithsonian, located in the heart of museum mile, hosts an annual festival to celebrate cultural traditions from all around the world. This festival has lots of different events to suit everyones taste. From crafts and cooking presentations, music and dance shows, to storytelling and cultural discussions, there is bound to be something to keep everyone happy.
This is a special annual event that is sponsored by the Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, and this year the focus of the celebrations is on Peru.
On July 4th the festival will is on from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.
The times of these events could not be more perfect. You can easily pack all of the events in and have an amazing (and cultured) time celebrating our independence.
Whatever you get up to, have a great July 4th.