A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin began planning the march in December 1961. They envisioned two days of protest, including sit-ins and lobbying followed by a mass rally at the Lincoln Memorial. They wanted to focus on joblessness and to call for a public works program that would employ black people. In early 1963 they called publicly for "a massive March on Washington for jobs". [27] They Find Ranger Programs in DC Area Parks 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. 10:00am-7:00pm: National Archives Family Event The National Archives will hold its annual Fourth of July program featuring prominent speakers, musical performances, and family activities to celebrate the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. This family event is free and open to the public. National Mall fireworks A major tradition for the NPS, the fireworks display this year will be held from 9:09-9:27 p.m., with fireworks launched on both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. This guide details exciting events for the 4th of July in DC, including the National Mall fireworks display, parades, concerts, and more. Plan your unforgettable Independence Day experience! 9 Entertaining Events to Celebrate Fourth of July Around the DC Area Fireworks, concerts, food cruises, and more Independence Day cheer. Due to limited access and safety concerns caused by construction, the Lincoln Memorial, including the steps and access ramp, will be closed on July 4. The Washington Monument will close at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3 and reopen at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 5. Access to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial will be limited after 8 p.m. A keynote speaker delivers the main address during the 10:00-11:00 AM ceremony. The highlight is a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by costumed interpreters portraying founding figures including Abigail Adams, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. News4’s Walter Morris has what you need to know if your plans include heading to the National Mall to see the Fourth of July fireworks. Toast America’s birthday with fireworks, parades, concerts and other events in and around Washington, D.C. The National Mall will close 14th Street by the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial starting at 4 a.m. July 4th for security sweeps. The most popular and iconic viewing spot for Fourth of July fireworks in Washington is the National Mall. Attendees often stake out spots near the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial hours before dark to make sure they are settled for the 17-minute display launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting The complete guide to July Fourth celebrations in the D.C. area Toast America’s birthday with fireworks, parades, concerts and other events in and around Washington, D.C. The Rev. Billy Graham speaks from the Lincoln Memorial on July 4, 1970, as hundreds of thousands look on. Graham was the featured speaker in opening event on the religious and patriotic program on Honor America Day. Is there anything better than watching the 4th of July fireworks in Washington DC? After all, DC represents America with its focus on providing equality for all. Where else can you visit the White House, see the Abraham Lincoln memorial, and go to the United Discover the ultimate 4th of July guide for Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia! From National Mall fireworks to rooftop parties and family-friendly festivals, celebrate Independence Day in the DMV Watching fireworks is a highlight of DC’s July Fourth celebrations. Find out where to get the best views, from rooftop bars to the Lincoln Memorial and more. Celebrate Independence Day in DC, with A Capitol Fourth 2025! Get event details, performer lineup, viewing tips, and more for an unforgettable July 4th. Where to watch the Fourth of July fireworks show in Washington, D.C., if you don't want to deal with National Mall crowds. The best July 4th firework shows While your neighbor’s backyard bottle rockets might be amusing, these 12 cities take Independence Day pyrotechnics to ridiculous heights. We’ve tracked down the most epic, confirmed fireworks displays worth planning your July 4th around.
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