Fourth of July Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day in the Nation’s Capital. There’s no better place to celebrate our nation’s birthday than in its capital city, with a parade, a star-studded concert and more.

Starting at 9:45 am, An American Celebration will take place at Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens, featuring military reenactments, a musical performance by the National Concert Band of America, a wreath-laying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies last), and a visit from General and Mrs. Washington.

The National Archives’ July 4 celebration kicks off at 10 am with a ceremony including a Presentation of Colors by the Continental Color Guard and a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. From 11 am - 2:30 pm, other activities will take place, along with appearances will be made by George and Martha Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin.

Another daytime option is the 4th of July Celebration, from 10 am - 4 pm at the National Archives on Constitution Avenue between 7th and 9th Streets NW. Festivities kick off at 10 am and feature patriotic music, a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence and exciting free family activities, as well as entertainment for all ages. Children will get to meet historical figures including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Susan B. Anthony.

The 42nd Smithsonian Folklife Festival runs June 25-29 and July 2-6. Open 11 am - 5:30 pm, the annual celebration of cultural diversity turns the National Mall into a global bazaar with music, dancing, crafts and demonstrations exploring different cultures around the world. This year’s festival focuses on the nation of Bhutan, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and Texas in the Deep South.

At 11 am, catch the free Annual Independence Day Organ Concert at the Washington National Cathedral, featuring organists Scott Dettra and Christopher Jacobson. The program of music includes both classical and popular traditions designed for the whole family to enjoy.

For the quintessential 4th of July experience, don’t miss America’s National Independence Day Parade, which features marching bands, military and specialty units, floats and VIPs. The parade starts at 11:45 am at Constitution Avenue and 7th Street NW.

Round out an exciting day with a visit the U.S. Capitol’s West Lawn for "A Capitol Fourth," a free, 90-minute live musical extravaganza. Hosted by Jimmy Smits, the concert’s headliners include Huey Lewis & The News, Taylor Hicks, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hayley Westenra, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Harolyn Blackwell and the National Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Erich Kunzel.

Conclude the evening with a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument. They can be viewed from the West Lawn, or, for a more unconventional viewing, have dinner at one of DC’s many restaurants offering rooftop dining, and view the colorful bursts from there. Fireworks begin at approximately 9:20 pm.

Or, celebrate the nation’s birthday aboard the Sprit of Washington on its Fireworks Dinner Cruise. Coast along the Potomac from 8 - 11 pm and enjoy a premium open bar, dinner buffet, great music and an incredible view of the fireworks over the Washington Monument.

Hotel packages: Beat the traffic and make it a long weekend when you book a "Staying Power" package at washington.org. Hotel rates start at just $99 per night, and when you stay 3 nights, you’ll save 30% on your entire stay.

Note: Most museums and attractions will be open on the Fourth of July and throughout the holiday weekend, including the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Gallery of Art, the International Spy Museum, Newseum, Corcoran Gallery of Art, Madame Tussauds and many others. Some federal buildings will be closed. For details on National Mall access points, parking and transportation options on Independence Day and much more,Click here for information directly from the National Park Service.