Star-Spangled Fun

When it comes to Independence Day celebrations, our area’s got it covered. Classic fireworks displays, patriotic parades, live performances … there are so many ways to enjoy this beloved summer holiday. So grab the family, don some red, white and blue and head out to one of these awesome local events below.

1. Fourth of July Fireworks on the National Mall: July 4, 9 p.m.
Is there any better place to watch a patriotic fireworks display than in our nation’s capital? Head out to the National Mall for the grandest display of fireworks, set amongst a true backdrop of American pride. National Mall, near the Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool, Washington, D.C.

2. National Independence Day Parade: July 4, 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m.
The National Independence Day Parade is a true spectacle! Marching bands, fife and drum corps, floats, military units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams and more celebrate Independence Day in this patriotic, flag-waving, red, white and blue celebration of America’s birthday. Constitution Avenue N.W. from 7th Street N.W. to 17th Street N.W., Washington, D.C.

3. Barracks Row Fourth of July Parade: July 4, 10 a.m.
This annual patriotic event brings in a crowd of nearly 5,000 people! The parade includes floats, marching groups, little red wagons and more in celebration of our nation’s birthday. So if you’re looking for a great Fourth of July parade, head out to Barracks Row. Barracks Row, 8th St., S.E., Washington, D.C.

4. Fourth of July Musical Salute: July 4, Noon
It’s going to be a true star-spangled day at The Wharf. Throughout the day, there will be live music on Pearl Street, Fish Market and Transit Pier Stages. While you’re there, enjoy an afternoon lunch at one of The Wharf’s many restaurants and stay to watch the fireworks show! The Wharf, 760 Maine Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C.

5. Red, White & Blue Reptiles Alive!: July 4, 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.
A variety of colorful live reptiles — ones with red scales and white tails and some with blue tongues — will be featured during this fun and patriotic-inspired animal show! A kid-friendly wildlife educator will educate and entertain guests with animal stories and facts. Enjoy a meet and greet as well from 1-2 p.m. Claude Moore Park, Sterling, Va.

6. Fairfax City’s 53rd Annual Independence Day Parade: July 4, 10 a.m.
This annual Fairfax City Independence Day Parade is always a hit! This year, nine high school marching bands will be performing along with many large inflatable parade balloons, floats and clowns. After the parade, stick around for the evening show starting at 6:30 p.m., which includes music, on-stage entertainment, dancing, face painting and a glorious fireworks display. The parade starts at 4100 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax, Va.

7. Celebrate America!: July 4, 3 p.m.
Head to Manassas for one of Northern Virginia’s largest fireworks displays! The fun starts early, beginning at 3 p.m. with great rides for kids, food concessions, novelty vendors, live entertainment and more. The fireworks display starts at 9:15 p.m., so don’t forget to bring along your lawn chairs and blankets. Manassas Museum Lawn and Historic Manassas, Va.

8. Annapolis Fourth of July Parade: July 4, 6:30 p.m.
Celebrate our nation’s birthday in lovely Annapolis! Enjoy watching a glorious parade full of marching bands, fire engines old and new, cars and vans, service clubs and scouts, music and more. Enjoy tons of food and drinks along the parade route as well. And, of course, stick around for a gorgeous fireworks display over Annapolis Harbor. Downtown Annapolis, Md.

9. Takoma Park IndependenceDay Celebration: July 4, parade at 10 a.m., evening program at 7 p.m.
Enjoy a wonderful Fourth of July at one of our area’s oldest Independence Day celebrations! This Takoma Park event includes a lively morning parade and a full day of entertainment, including children’s activities, vendors, live music, a WAU Acro-Airs tumbling performance and food trucks. The Takoma Park Community Band will perform a patriotic selection of classical and popular show tunes and an ultra-fun Motown-themed band will close out the night. Begins at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen avenues, Takoma Park, Md.

10. 2019 Washington Nationals USO-Metro Beneficiary Games: July 3, 6:05 p.m.
Before you spend July 4th watching parades and cooking out, why not celebrate our nation a day early by watching one of America’s greatest treasures — baseball. Head out to Nationals Park on July 3rd to see the Nats play the Miami Marlins on “Family Night.” There will be patriotic gear, themed giveaways and a post-game fireworks show. Go tousometro.org/NatsBenefit19 for discounted tickets in prime seating, including $10 food vouchers. Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.

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