Independence day is right around the corner and what better way the enjoy than to celebrate July 4th in Washington DC! If you’re still making for plans, here’s a roundup of some of the events and activities you may want to check out around the DC area.
Picnic at The Yards Park
Where: 355 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003
When: All Day
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Get the day started by packing up a picnic and heading down The Yards Park! Enjoy views of the Anacostia waterfront (and the newly opened marina) while the kiddos cool off in the splash park. Not interested in packing a picnic? Choose from one of the many great lunch options along the waterfront.
Capitol Hill Community Parade
Where: 8th Street & I Street NE
When: July 4, 10:00 AM
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Stroll on over to 8th Street on Saturday morning to get the festivities started with a community parade featuring antique cars, community leaders, mini superheroes and princesses, local schools, street performers and 50 contestants from the Ms. United States pageant. Keep an eye out for the BID’s “Men in Blue” who will be tossing beads, candy and more!
America’s National Independence Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue & 7th Street NW
When: July 4, 11:45 AM
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Co-hosted by the National Park Service and produced by Diversified Events, this quintessential July 4th experience is complete with invited bands from around the country, fife and drum corps, floats, military and specialty units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams, VIP’s, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants.
National Museum of American History
Where: 14th Street & Constitution Avenue NW
When: 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, everyday (see calendar for extended holiday hours)
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There are few things more patriotic than the American Flag. As always, the flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner will be on display this weekend at the National Museum of American History. Whether this weekend brings rain or high temperatures, take a break from the outdoors to experience this piece of American history.
A Capitol Fourth Concert and Fireworks on the National Mall
Where: Fireworks launch from the Reflecting Pool
When: Concert at 8:00 PM, Fireworks at 9:15 PM
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Tradition continues with the A Capitol Fourth concert, followed by firework display. This event is free and open to the public. If you plan to attend either or both events, show up nice and early to claim your spot: admittance begins at 3:00 PM. Performers this year include Smokey Robinson, Kenny Loggins, Gavin DeGraw and Yolanda Adams.
Fireworks Dinner Cruise
Where: Departs from 600 Water St
When: July 4, boarding at 6:00 PM
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Take in a different perspective of the city with a dinner cruise on the Odyssey! Splurge on this special experience, complete with a gourmet 3 course dinner, premium open bar, live music and dancing and, of course, a spectacular view of the monuments and fireworks. This event is 21+ and tickets are $219.90 per person.
Red White & Blue Silent Disco
Where: 3401 Water St NW, Washington, DC 20007
When: July 4, 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM
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Keep the party going on Sunday with a silent disco at Malmaison! Never heard of a silent disco? It goes like this: attendees wear wireless headphones and have a choice of 3 different playlists from live DJ’s to rock out to. The headsets light up in a different color for each playlist so other attendees know who’s dancing to the same tune. This is a great opportunity to take in sweeping views of the city in a less-than-traditional way! This event is 21+ and tickets are $20 per person.
Take In The Fireworks
While there’s really no reason to leave the 360 degree views from the Park Chelsea rooftop to see the fireworks, there are plenty of great vantage points throughout the area that you may want to check out (or suggest to friends). Here are the best spots to watch.
