The Best Fourth of July Celebrations Across the U.S.
Washington, D.C.
Naturally, our nation’s capital is a wonderful place to celebrate the Fourth of July. Festivities start with the 50th annual free Smithsonian Folklife Festival on the National Mall from June 29-July 4 and July 6-9, featuring concerts, food, dance, and more. On the Fourth, find a spot on the Capitol's West Lawn for a free concert at 8 p.m. presented by the National Symphony Orchestra and a fireworks finale. Other viewing points include the National Mall, Supreme Court Plaza, Mt. Vernon Trail, East Potomac Park, the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial across the Potomac, and the Washington National Cathedral.
The original Declaration of Independence is housed at the National Archives, and the museum celebrates with days of special events. On Friday, June 30, the United States Army Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps will perform at noon, and on Saturday, July 1, there will be a musical performance by Batala Washington, an all-women Afro-Brazilian band. On Sunday at noon, The Singing Capital Chorus will perform. Taste American Heritage Chocolate near the National Archives store from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
On the Fourth, head for the steps at Constitution Avenue at 10 a.m. for the Declaration of Independence Reading Ceremony, a dramatic reading of the document by reenactors portraying historical characters, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Abigail Adams, John Hancock, and others. The National Independence Day Parade begins at 11:45 a.m., featuring fife and drum corps, military servicemen and women, floats, VIP’s, equestrian, drill teams, and giant balloons.
For a moving and authentic experience, travel to George Washington’s Mt. Vernon home, just 30 minutes outside Washington. A group of new U.S. citizens will participate in their naturalization ceremony, an appropriate event for the day. There will be military reenactments, drills, a concert, a “Happy Birthday America” cake, and unique made-for-daytime fireworks over the Potomac at 1 p.m.
Add these patriotic cities to your July 4 bucket list.
