The 4th of July celebrations are among the most attended events of the year and many people arrive early to stake out a seat on the lawn. You can spend the afternoon enjoying the cultural festivities at the the Smithsonian Folklife Festival which takes place on the National Mall from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.
Getting to the National Mall
The best way to get to the National Mall is to take the Metro. Stations nearby include Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown, Judiciary Square, Federal Triangle and L'Enfant Plaza.The Smithsonian Metro station will be closed on the Fourth.Public access to the National Mall begins at 10:00 a.m., with all visitors required to enter via a security checkpoint. Read more about getting to the National Mall, public transportation, parking, security and road closures.
Washington, DC’s Independence Day Parade
Parade Start Time: 11:45 a.m.Parade Route: Constitution Avenue and 7th to 17th Sts.
Washington, DC’s 4th of July Parade features marching bands, military and specialty units, floats, and VIP's. The parade draws a large crowd, so plan to arrive early to stake out a good viewing spot. See Photos of the Independence Day Parade
Independence Day at the National Archives
The National Archives celebrates the Fourth of July with special family programming celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visit the National Archives Building for this special birthday party from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. See the schedule of events.White House Visitor Center Family Events
Between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., stop at the White House Visitor Center and enjoy games, crafts and other activities celebrating America's Birthday. National Park Service rangers and volunteers will give you the opportunity to sample the sights, sounds, activities and personages that helped finalize the Declaration of Independence and create the United States of America on July 4, 1776.A Capitol Fourth Concert
Time: 8 - 9:30 p.m. (Admittance begins at 5 p.m.)Location: West Lawn of the U. S. Capitol
A 4th of July tradition in the nation's capital includes a live concert by the National Symphony Orchestra and several pop artists performing patriotic music on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. The concert and show is followed by a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. The concert is free and open to the public. No tickets are necessary. The annual event is broadcast live on PBS with a repeat airing at 9:30-11:00 p.m. See photos of A Capitol Fourth and performers for the 2008 concert.
Fourth of July Fireworks on the National Mall
Fireworks Time: At dark, usually around 9:15 p.m. Rain Date: July 5thLaunch Location: The fireworks are launched from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and light up the sky over the Washington Monument. See Photos of the Fireworks
The Best Places to View the National Mall Fireworks
- U. S. Capitol
- Lincoln Memorial
- Jefferson Memorial
- FDR Memorial
- East Potomac Park
- Anywhere along the National Mall between 14th Street and the Capitol
- Aboard a cruise along the Potomac River
If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds of the city, there are plenty of alternative places to watch fireworks. Here are some suggestions.
For Fireworks in Maryland, See Page 2
For Fireworks in Virginia, See Page 3
