Check out daytime fireworks, a boat parade, live music, and more at these patriotic parties. Photograph by xmrrushx/Getty Images. If you want to avoid the Fourth of July crowds on the National Mall, local communities and surrounding small towns are offering alternative celebrations. Find Independence Day fireworks near you in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia before, during and after the Fourth of July. 1. Juneteenth. 2. June events. 3. July. 4. Live music. 5. Pride parties. 6. Protest. 7. Concerts. 8. Embassy. 10. Day party. 11. Comedy shows. 12. Yoga. From marching bands and fife and drum corps to floats military units, and drill teams, Washington DC 4th of July events bring out the best in patriotic fun. Wondering are DC buses free on 4th of July? 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 Washington D.C. is always a hot tourist destination in the United States, and the city will host a myriad of patriotic events to commemorate the nation’s birthday. Whether you’re searching for “Independence Day events near me,” the best places to watch fireworks in Washington DC, or family-friendly July 4th activities across Maryland and Virginia, this comprehensive guide is your essential passport to America’s 249th birthday bash. From day to night and Beyoncé to parades, here’s what to do for the Fourth of July on the National Mall and beyond. WASHINGTON, DC — Independence Day falls on a Friday in 2025, kicking off a star-spangled three-day weekend packed with fireworks, festivals and other Fourth of July fun in and around the All Day 4th of July Shipgarten’s Tysons Corner location has a full slate of events for the whole family to enjoy – even your furry friends! Credit: Shutterstock The fireflies are out, the rooftop bars are open late, and summertime is in full swing in the District. From Fourth of July celebrations and music festivals to sporting events and popup markets, this month is boasting nonstop fun-filled events! To help you make the most of your July in D.C., we’ve compiled the best goings-on that you won’t want to miss: 1. Celebrate Visiting DC for your July 4th holiday or looking for something to do in the local area? Set the calendar to July to check out ranger programs and more July 4th events at national parks throughout the DC area happening around or on Independence Day. Complete list of Independence Day fireworks displays across Washington DC area in 2025. From National Mall to regional celebrations, find all Fourth of July events with parades, concerts, and spectacular pyrotechnic shows. Celebrate Independence Day 2025 in style! Find exciting 4th of July events, parades, and fireworks displays happening near Washington. Your 4th Of July Guide for 2025 in Washington 9 Entertaining Events to Celebrate Fourth of July Around the DC Area Fireworks, concerts, food cruises, and more Independence Day cheer. visit the race's website for the most complete and accurate race information. July Culture Guide: 47 Things to Do in the DC Area Catch Beyoncé live, check out the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and attend a book talk on DC's Latino immigrants. 12 Events to Celebrate Fourth of July Around the DC Area Fireworks, rooftop parties, concerts, and more red, white, and blue fun. 1. Fireworks, music and major events on the National Mall The Fourth of July is one of the busiest days of the year in Washington, with events on and around the National Mall running for more than Each year, Washington, DC celebrates the Fourth of July with a bang, meaning there are plenty of DC-flavored ways to honor Independence Day. Read below for some of our favorite selections and make sure to check out other summer activities in DC, including where to watch the fireworks on the Fourth. And stay tuned for ways to celebrate America's 250th through July 4, 2026.
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