Best Ways to Celebrate Fourth of July 2024 in Washington DC | Fireworks, Parades & More

Planning to visit DC for the Fourth of July? The nation's capital is in full Independence swing and there is plenty to do, from fireworks to parades to a lot more. People see many patriotic celebrations to commemorate Independence Day, visit national monuments dedicated to those who have served our country, and one of the many DC regional national parks while enjoying the recreational opportunities. There are plenty of places to see and things to do too. Here is a list of celebrations you can do on the Fourth July in DC-

1. 4th July Fireworks At National Park

The Fireworks in DC has always been the centerfold for celebrating Independence Day. Every year, the National Park Service holds an annual Independence Day fireworks festival at the National Mall. The National Mall is the country's premier public space, with over a dozen monuments honoring America's greats.

On the 4th of July, the firework starts at night around 9 ‘o clock and is launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Flyovers will feature the Air Force Thunderbirds and the Navy's Blue Angels, as well as vintage World War II aircraft. 

As the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and grounds around the Washington Monument are usually the most popular places and people come out early in the day to grab a spot. You can enjoy the spectacular view of fireworks in the sky enhancing the beauty of DC. You can park near the National Monument a couple of hours early and can have a great time hanging out and then watching the show in the sky above as the day faded tonight. 

2.  National Independence Day Parade

The 4th of July National Parade can be observed along Constitution Avenue between 7th and 17th streets along with the Fife and Drum Corps, who play military servicemen. Usually, the parade starts at 11:45 am with some colourful floats and entertainment. If you want to explore the real DC then how can one miss the most extravagant parade which attracts millions of people enjoying. 

A "Salute to America" honours the armed services with music, military demonstrations, and flyovers from the Blue Angels, Air Force One, and others around the Lincoln Memorial.

3. The Capitol Fourth Concert 

The Free Capitol Fourth Concert is a popular July 4th event in Washington, DC. The concert takes place in Parliament and is broadcasted on PBS. This free annual concert features military bands, classical music orchestras, and celebrity pop and rock artists on the west lawn of the United States Capitol Building. To conclude the concert broadcast, the National Mall fireworks will be broadcast live from multiple cameras located in the city.

With all-new pre-taped performances from locations across the country, they feature top stars from pop, country, R&B, classical, and Broadway. This vibrant mash-up of genres culminates in spectacular fireworks over the capital's famous monuments.

4. National Achieves 

A special presentation of the Archives' traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence is available. Along with a full day of educational programs such as "discussions" with historical figures such as Dorothy Hancock, Abigail Adams, and Thomas Jefferson.

6. 57th Palisades Parade and Picnic

The Palisades Parade and Picnic returns for its 57th year. On July 4th, the show begins at noon on Whitehaven Parkway. The parade will proceed to the Palisades Recreation Center, where there will be a free picnic with hot dogs and watermelon. Bring the kids to enjoy the moon bounces and live music.

7. 4th July Celebration At Mount Vernon

You can also celebrate the annual Independence Day at Mount Vernon, but you must first purchase a ticket. 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.

8. Celebrate at Smithsonian’s National Zoo & National Portrait Gallery

The Smithsonian National Zoo is a great place for families to spend an afternoon on Independence Day. You can watch elephants in training, assist in fish feeding, meet a Great Ape keeper, and explore a rainforest habitat. At the Panda House, you can also see everyone's favorite pandas.

The National Portrait Gallery's exhibition of US Presidents is ideal for an Independence Day visit. They have a collection of images of previous presidents, as well as beautiful sculptures and famous paintings. The exhibit also includes interactive elements to enhance your residential experience.