by If the thought of massive crowds on the National Mall has you reconsidering your Fourth of July plans, don’t worry — the D.C. region is packed with spectacular fireworks shows and family-friendly festivities happening closer to home. From Maryland’s beaches to Virginia’s historic towns, here’s your guide to catching the best Independence Day celebrations around the area:
Maryland Fireworks and Events
Ocean City
- Two fireworks shows: North Division Street Beach & Northside Park at 125th Street
- Free admission; bring your own blankets or chairs
Chesapeake Beach
- July 3, Kellam’s Field festivities start at 5 p.m.
- Food trucks, games, activities, and fireworks at dusk
- Rain date: July 5
Montgomery County
- July 4: South Germantown Recreational Park, 7 p.m. — Live music & fireworks
- July 5: Albert Einstein High School, Kensington, 7 p.m. — Live music & fireworks
Upper Marlboro (Six Flags America, Bowie)
- Star-Spangled Nights, July 4 & 5 at 9:15 p.m.
- Tickets: $29 (plus parking & fees)
Takoma Park
- July 4 parade at 10 a.m., loops around Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues
- Evening street party from 6-9 p.m. with live music, food, and family fun
Virginia Fireworks and Events
Lorton
- June 28, Workhouse Arts Center hosts one of the region’s largest fireworks shows
- Gates open at 4 p.m., fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
- Reserved parking: $50, general admission is free
City of Fairfax
- July 4, Fairfax High School Stadium
- Gates open at 6:30 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
- Live music and national anthem performance
Fairfax County (Lake Fairfax Park)
- June 28, full day of entertainment, food trucks, and fireworks after 9 p.m.
- Parking: $20 in advance, $25 day-of
Alexandria
- July 12, celebrating Alexandria’s 276th birthday at Oronoco Bay Park
- Fireworks at 9:30 p.m., live music, food and drink vendors, free admission
Mount Vernon
- June 27, 28 & July 4 — Fireworks over the Potomac River
- Wreath-laying at Washington’s Tomb, live music, and ice cream
- Bring lawn chairs or blankets; outside food not allowed
Washington, D.C. Events
National Mall Fireworks Show
- July 4, begins at 9:09 p.m.
- 17-minute show launching from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
- Alternative viewing: Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, White House Ellipse, West Potomac Park
National Independence Day Parade
- July 4 at 11:45 a.m., down Constitution Avenue (7th to 17th Streets)
- Floats, marching bands, dance teams, and giant balloons
- Livestream available for those avoiding the crowds
Nationals Park
- July 3, postgame fireworks after 6:45 p.m. game
- July 4, free Budweiser for adults, patriotic tribute by U.S. Steel
West Lawn of the Capitol — Capitol Fourth Concert
- July 4, begins at 8 p.m.
- Features the National Symphony Orchestra and special performances
- Free to attend; broadcast live on PBS
