What to Do on the 4th of July on the National Mall and Around Washington DC – NBC4 Washington

The provided HTML code includes a paragraph about celebrating the Fourth of July in Washington, D.C., followed by several sections with headings, lists, and additional paragraphs providing information on various events and activities related to the holiday.The provided HTML code includes a paragraph about celebrating the Fourth of July in Washington, D.C., followed by several sections with headings, lists, and additional paragraphs providing information on various events and activities related to the holiday. * First Section (Fourth of July on the National Mall): – Highlights the National Mall as an ideal location to celebrate Independence Day. – Mentions the need for planning due to crowds and security measures. – Provides details on road closures, Metro access, and National Mall access points. – Describes the National Park Service fireworks display and its schedule. – Lists prohibited items for entry to the National Mall. – Suggests alternative viewing locations for the fireworks. – Lists daytime activities on the National Mall, including the National Independence Day Parade, Independence Day at the National Archives, and other events. * Second Section (Best Metro Stations for Access to National Mall): – Recommends less crowded Metro stations for accessing the National Mall. * Third Section (Fireworks in Maryland and Virginia): – Provides information on major fireworks shows in neighboring states. * Fourth Section (What to do on July 4th): – Lists several activities and events: – Lecture: “What is the Fourth of July to the Slave?” at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site – “An American Party” at Mount Vernon, including fireworks and other activities – “A Fourth Capitol” concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol – “Fourth at The Wharf” with country music and fireworks – Community Parades * Fifth Section (Community Parades): – Mentions neighborhood parades for celebrating patriotism. The code concludes with a callout to sign up for a newsletter called “The Weekend Scene” for upcoming events and activities around the area.

Happy Fourth of July! The United States is turning 248 years old, and the Washington, D.C. area is celebrating with fireworks, free concerts, historical events, and parades.

Fourth of July on the National Mall

If there’s one holiday that should be celebrated on the National Mall in Washington, DC, it’s Independence Day.

But with crowds, road closures, and extra security measures, you’ll want to make a plan. Here’s what you need to know about road closures, Metro, and National Mall access points. In short: Allow time to ride the Metro, navigate the crowds, and undergo security screening at National Mall access points.

National Park Service Fireworks

The National Park Service’s grand fireworks display will go off from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial. It is scheduled to begin at 9:09 p.m. and last for 17 minutes.

Entry points to the National Mall open at 1:00 p.m. Expect a security check and bag check. Here is a list of prohibited items.

The fireworks can be seen from A Capitol Fourth concert, Fourth on The Wharf, and many locations throughout the District and Virginia. Our Fireworks Finder lists our favorite viewing spots. Or check out our list of viewing parties on rooftops, boats, and more.

Daytime Activities on the National Mall

Want to get an early start? Daytime activities in the National Mall area include:

• The National Independence Day Parade, which begins at 11:45 a.m. The parade will travel down Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets NW. The steps of the National Archives are a great place to watch, and the museum has many special activities planned…
• Independence Day at the National Archives: Celebrate with the Declaration of Independence itself. In addition to visiting the museum to view the founding documents of the United States, you can also enjoy a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a live performance by The Experience Band and Show, and family activities including hands-on crafts. Here’s the full schedule.
• The Capital Jewish Museum Family Day will feature history talks, mezuzah activities, crafts, music, and outdoor games. It is within walking distance of the National Mall and would make a great stop between Judiciary Square and the mall.
• The National Park Service runs spy activities from the Sylvan Theater at the Washington Monument. They are geared toward children ages 10 and up.
• The Smithsonian museums are open and offer a nice shelter from the elements.

Best Metro Stations for Access to National Mall

• The Smithsonian/National Mall or Federal Triangle (both on the Orange, Blue, Silver lines) are very close to the National Mall, but the National Park Service recommends going to other stations that are a little further away but less crowded.
• L’Enfant Plaza (Silver, Orange, Blue, Green and Yellow Lines), Metro Center (Red, Blue, Orange and Silver Lines), Judiciary Square (Red Line) and Archives/Navy Memorial (Green and Yellow Lines) are all within walking distance of the National Mall.

Fireworks in Maryland and Virginia

Our fireworks finder highlights major fireworks shows in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia, including several weekend shows like Mid-County Sparkles in Kensington and a Wild West-themed festival in Bladensburg.

What to do on July 4th

Lecture of “What is the Fourth of July to the Slave?” at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Thursday, July 4, 11am – 5pm, 1411 W St. SE
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In 1852, Frederick Douglass famously asked his audience, “What is the Fourth of July to a Slave?” In his now-famous speech, he sharply criticized the irony of celebrating freedom in a country where it was legal to enslave people.

In one of DC’s most reflective and moving Fourth of July traditions, actor Michael Crutcher will portray Douglass and deliver the keynote address on the porch of Douglass’ former home in Anacostia. Following the lecture, DC Strings Workshop will perform period music. Visitors can take photos with Crutcher and tour the first floor of the historic home.

An American party
Thursday, July 4, 9am-5pm, Mount Vernon, included in admission
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If most fireworks shows take place after your kids’ bedtime, Mount Vernon might be a good alternative.

The fireworks created during the day will be launched over the Potomac River at 1:00 p.m.

That’s just one part of a daylong Independence Day celebration at George Washington’s former home. There are also performances, history lectures and tours.

A Fourth Capitol
Gates open at 3pm, concert starts at 8pm, U.S. Capitol grounds
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The annual concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol is a star-studded show, featuring Smokey Robinson honoring Motown, Fantasia, Darren Criss of “Glee,” Sister Sledge, the National Symphony Orchestra, a farewell party for Team USA and a view of fireworks on the National Mall.

The show and dress rehearsal on Wednesday are free and open to the public, with gates opening at 3pm on both days.

Fourth at The Wharf
5:00-9:00 PM
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Head to The Wharf for a free day of country music on four stages and family-friendly activities. Weather permitting, expect great views of the fireworks over the National Mall.

Food and drink are available throughout The Wharf. You can take a low chair to the District Pier, but arrive early as space is limited.

Community Parades

Celebrate patriotism with your entire neighborhood during these community parades:

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