You can watch the grand fireworks show from the National Mall, attend a patriotic parade in downtown DC, or toast to America’s birthday aboard a dinner cruise. Plus, there’s a pre-fireworks show at the Nationals’ baseball game. Here are some of the best ways to celebrate July 4 around DC: Independence Day with the Nationals National Mall – The centerpiece of D.C.’s Fourth of July celebration. Fireworks launch from both sides of the Reflecting Pool at 9:09 p.m. Get there early to claim a spot near the monuments Each year, Washington, DC celebrates the Fourth of July with a bang, meaning there are plenty of DC-flavored ways to honor Independence Day. Read below for some of our favorite selections and make sure to check out other summer activities in DC, including where to watch the fireworks on the Fourth. What to do in Maryland. July 4 fireworks and celebrations. Takoma Park's 2025 4th of July Parade and Evening Street Party: Fri., Takoma Park, free. Charles County Fairgrounds Fireworks: Fri., 3-10 Complete list of Independence Day fireworks displays across Washington DC area in 2025. From National Mall to regional celebrations, find all Fourth of July events with parades, concerts, and spectacular pyrotechnic shows. The complete guide to July Fourth celebrations in the D.C. area Toast America’s birthday with fireworks, parades, concerts and other events in and around Washington, D.C. DC's breathtaking fireworks from an exclusive rooftop; Stunning panoramic views of the National Mall; Don't miss your chance—this VIP event is sure to sell out. Proceeds support DC students and The American Experience Foundation (AEF), DDC's official partner non-profit. Ticket Information: Regularly priced tickets ($250) begin Jan. 1, 2025. 🎆 July 4th Events in Downtown D.C. 🎆 The National Mall may have the fireworks, but Downtown D.C. has the party. Just a short walk away, you’ll find festive bar crawls, rooftop viewing parties, and a dog-friendly social. Downtown has everything you need to keep the Independence celebrations going before and after the big fireworks shows. Salamander Middleburg July 4th Celebration (Middleburg, VA): Located at 500 N Pendleton St, the Salamander Middleburg resort hosts an ultimate Independence Day celebration on July 4, 2025. General Admission (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | $115 per adult, $50 per child 3-12) : Enjoy live music, fun lawn games, and an All-American Buffet featuring Wagyu The day's events include General Washington inspecting the troops on the Bowling Green, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and much more. Observe a moving ceremony in which people from across the world become U.S. citizens. Virginia 4th of July Celebration, Culpeper | July 4 The Town of Culpeper will commemorate the Fourth of July with not only fireworks but also moon bounces, a car and bike show, live music, food trucks, craft vendors and the town’s annual Culpeper Freedom 5k. The fireworks will be set off from Rockwater Park at 9:15 p.m. Local Fourth of July Fireworks, Parades, and Celebrations Away From the National Mall Check out daytime fireworks, a boat parade, live music, and more at these patriotic parties. Day One: July 2, 2025 Day Two: July 3 Day Three: July 4 Day Four: July 5 • Arrival in Washington, D.C. • Meet your Tour Manager, who will escort you through the duration of your activities • Sightseeing may include a panoramic motorcoach tour of Historic Washington, D.C., including a visit to Lafayette Square for a photo If the thought of massive crowds on the National Mall has you reconsidering your Fourth of July plans, don’t worry — the D.C. region is packed with spectacular fireworks shows and family-friendly festivities happening closer to home. From Maryland’s beaches to Virginia’s historic towns, here’s your guide to catching the best Independence Day celebrations around the area: Maryland Fireworks, parades, performances: Where to see July Fourth celebrations in DC area Diane Morris | diane.morris@wtop.com June 27, 2025, 6:24 AM National Archives July 4 Celebration July 4, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., National Archives, free. Party with the Declaration of Independence itself at this family-friendly celebration that is free and Whether you’re here for the booming DC 4th of July fireworks, the star studded Capitol Fourth concert, or the high-energy DC 4th of July parade marching down Constitution Avenue from 7th Street to 17th Street, this guide covers it all. Find Independence Day fireworks near you in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia before, during and after the Fourth of July. Palisades 4th of July Parade One of Northwest DC’s longest-established July 4th celebrations is returning for its 59th rendition. Below is the full schedule, plus what to know about prohibited items and other important information. Attendees should also check for more information and updates on the National Park Service July 4th website. National Mall July Fourth Schedule of Events – Friday, July 4, 2025. National Independence Day Parade
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