Tag Archives: July 4th in DC

June 30, 2019 · 8:06 am

2019 Independence Day Celebrations Around DC

What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in our nation’s capital? This is where the actual Declaration of Independence is housed (and will be read!), and celebrations take place among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. From fireworks over the city and concerts at the Capitol to special events at George Washington’s house to neighborhood parades and ballpark fun, there are loads of ways to revel on July 4th (and 3rd!). Here are details on a bunch of them. Happy Independence Day!

National Independence Day Parade
Where: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th-17th Streets | DC
When: July 4, 11:45am
Admission: Free
Many national holidays get a parade in DC, and July 4th is no exception. Scores of spectators are expected to line the Constitution Avenue sidewalks to watch the procession celebrating Independence Day make its way from 7th to 17th Streets. Marching bands, floats, giant balloons, equestrian groups, drill teams, and military units will be among the pageantry. Stake out your spot along the route early, as this event attracts hundreds of thousands of viewers every year.

An American Celebration
Where: Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, VA
When: July 4, 9am – 5pm
Admission: $18-20/adult, $11-12/age 6-11, free/5 & under
The home of George Washington salutes the first commander-in-chief with a dazzling display of made-for-daytime fireworks during its annual Independence Day event. Visitors will be treated to spectacular smoke fireworks in patriotic colors fired over the Potomac River. The event also includes an inspirational naturalization ceremony for 100 new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreathlaying ceremony, and a visit from the “first” first couple, “General and Mrs. Washington.” See the full schedule of events here.

A Capitol Fourth
Where: West Lawn on the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 4, 8pm; gates open at 3pm
Admission: Free
The annual Independence Day concert airing live on PBS, A Capitol Fourth will feature great musical pageantry. John Stamos will be back to host this year’s show, which will include performances by Carole King, Vanessa Carlton, Vanessa Williams, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Choral Arts Society of Washington, MusiCorps, and many more exciting acts. A special treat for the entire family will be Big Bird, Abby Cadabby, Rosita, Elmo, Grover, Bert & Ernie from Sesame Street on hand to celebrate America’s birthday, as the Sesame Street Muppets perform a musical medley of patriotic favorites and iconic songs from the groundbreaking children’s television series. Get there early to stake out a spot! (KFDC tip: You can also enjoy the show with less crowds at the dress rehearsal on July 3 – same time and place!)

Fourth of July Musical Salute
Where: The District Wharf | Southwest DC
When: July 4, 12-8pm
Admission: Free
It’s a star-spangled day at The Wharf. There will be live music throughout the day on the Pearl Street, Fish Market, and Transit Pier stages. Let the kids splash in the fountains, rock on bench swings by the water, enjoy an afternoon lunch at the waterfront, then snag a spot on one of the piers or rooftop bars for some of the best fireworks viewing the city has to offer. Read more about The Wharf in this KFDC post.

Salute to America and Fireworks
Where: Lincoln Memorial & West Potomac Park, DC
When: July 4, 6:30 – 9:30
Admission: Free
Festivities on the National Mall will be a bit different from previous years. Instead of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival going on all day and a concert and fireworks happening in the evening, there will be a Salute to America by the President honoring America’s armed forces with music, military demonstrations, flyovers and much more (tickets required). Later, fireworks will take place at West Potomac Park.

America’s Pastime
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 3, 6:05pm & July 4, 11:05am
Admission: Ticket prices vary
A day at the ballpark is about as all-American as it gets when it comes to sports, and you can experience it and celebrate the holiday at Nationals Park. Kick off Independence Day on July 3rd, when the Nats play the Marlins and enjoy a postgame fireworks show. The July 4th game is all part of the Patriotic Series. Before you go, be sure to check this post for tips to save on a Nats game.

Fourth of July at the National Archives
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: July 4, 8am – 4pm
Admission: Free
Catch the annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. It starts at 10am, but doors open an 8am am, and the first 1,000 guests will receive a special T-shirt. After that, celebrate like it it’s 1776! Enjoy family activities, story time, crafts, and more! Meet John and Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock, Ned Hector, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington.

Neighborhood Parades
Where: Throughout the DMV
When: Most on July 4, times vary
Admission: Free
Keep it close to home at a community celebration. You likely are aware of July 4th events taking place in your neighborhood or nearby, but if you’re still looking for a hyperlocal fête, check out this list of parades around town.

Hang out on the LAWN
Where: National Building Museum | Judiciary Square, DC
When: July 4 (through September 3)
Admission: $16/adult, $13/child
It’s not an Independence Day celebration per se, but the Building Museum’s big annual Summer Block Party installation opens July 4th and will make for a fun and unique to do that day. Lawn will feature a vast, sloping green space set on a graceful incline and dotted with clusters of communal lounging areas. Visitors can enjoy refreshments and lawn games like croquet, bocce ball, and dominoes. A scaffolding tower that reaches the height of the Museum’s third floor will offer never-before-seen views of the Great Hall, column capitals, and sculptural busts lining the roof.

Visionary Pets on Parade
Where: American Visionary Arts Museum | Baltimore, MD
When: July 4, 9-10am
Admission: Free
Dress your pet & strut your stuff — or just go to watch the animal fun. Trophies awarded for Best Costume, Most Patriotic, Most Visionary Pet, Owner & Pet look-alikes, Least likely to succeed as a Pet, Visionary Pet Tricks and more! Friendly pets of ALL kinds are welcome to this best dog-gone parade in town. It will be followed by the Pet Talent (Or Not) Show! Pets must be leashed or carried. H20, pet cooling station, and baggies provided. Free and open to the public, and no advanced registration is required to participate or watch.

July 4th Celebration
Where: Armed Forces Retirement Home | Petworth, DC
When: 4-9:30pm
Admission: Free
All are welcome to join the 8th annual July 4th Celebration at the Armed Forces Retirement Home. Enjoy live entertainment, catch and release fishing, face painting, bouncy fun, an obstacle course, and crafts. Concessions will also be for sale and plentiful.

Family Fireworks Cruise
Where: Washington Marina | Southwest DC
When: July 4, 6:45pm
Admission: $159 (look for a discount)
View the breathtaking Independence Day fireworks display from the comfort of the boat, FREEDOM. This relaxing, family-friendly cruise with the National Ferry Corporation along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers offers front row seats to the stunning display in the sky, fun raffles, and complimentary hot dogs, chips, and an array of cookies & brownies for desert. There will also be a complimentary champagne toast for the adults during the fireworks show, plus a full bar with beverages available for purchase. Last year’s fireworks cruise sold out, so book your cruise soon.

Summer Rooftop BBQ
Where: The Eaton Hotel | Downtown DC
When: July 4, 4-8pm
Admission: $22/adult, $10/child
Wild Days, The Eaton Hotel’s indoor/outdoor rooftop music venue, is hosting a BBQ with a special menu for the holiday — and kids are welcome, too. The gathering aims to bring together members of the community around a selection of DJs, tasty food, and cocktails overlooking all of K street, inspired by the diversity and originality of DC.

Falls Church 4th of July Celebration
Where: George Mason High School | Fairfax, VA
When: July 4, 6-10pm
Admission: Free
The City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department will present its annual free July 4th Celebration at George Mason High School (7124 Leesburg Pike). Grab a bit fro food trucks starting at 6pm. Musical entertainment begins at 7pm with a live performance, and fireworks follow at 9:20pm. Blankets and flat-based chairs are allowed for seating on the field. Food and drinks will be sold on site.

McLean 4th of July Fireworks
Where: Langley High School | McLean, VA
When: July 4
Admission: Free
McLean’s annual Independence Day Celebration is at Langley High School this year. Gates open at 6pm, and the fireworks show begins at sunset, approximately 9:15pm. In addition to the large fireworks display, patrons can come early to enjoy musical entertainment by a local disc jockey, as well as food trucks selling a variety of entrees and snacks.

Where to Play on the Weekdays:
July 9-13

Beach day at Calvert Cliffs State Park

Monday – Take a walk in the woods and explore the grounds of Woodend Nature Sanctuary in Chevy Chase. The home of the Audubon Naturalist Society is perfect for hiking with little ones. The trails are mellow, there are several small exhibits like bees nests and bird feeding areas, and wildlife sightings are practically guaranteed. Open dawn to dusk. Admission is free.

Tuesday – Take a tour and go for a “swim” at Fun House, the National Building Museum’s big summer exhibition. Timed entry tickets are $16/adult, $13/child and good for an hour in the house, but admission gets you into all of the museum exhibits, so be sure to make time for those, too!

Wednesday – Head to Capitol Hill for outdoor play, kids activities, a performance by 4SW featuring students of Northwest High School, a concert by children’s musician Mister G, and a great lineup of speakers at the Play-In for Climate Action sponsored by Moms Clean Air Force. This family-friendly protest against the air pollution that causes dangerous climate change will showcase exactly what’s at stake as temperatures and sea levels rise: our kids. View more info and register here. The event takes place on the National Mall at 3rd Steet NW & Madison Drive NW. Admission is free.

Thursday – Watch JoJo and the Pinecones play a family-friendly concert at Strathmore’s Backyard Theatre for Children in North Bethesda. The annual summer entertainment series for kids takes place on Thursdays in July. Performances are at 9:30am and 11:30am. Tickets are $8-10.

Later on, get artrageous at Art Attack! From 5-9pm, leave your mark on Lubber Run Community Center in Arlington as they say goodbye to the 1950s and hello to a major 21st century upgrade. All ages are invited to leave a community footprint on the space before it is demolished with paint bombs, murals, a D.J., food trucks, and more!

Friday – Make it a beach day at Calvert Cliffs State Park. It’s a great place to enjoy sand, surf, and some easy hiking (it’s a flat, nature-filled 2-mile walk from the parking lot to the beach). Plan to do some fossil hunting while you’re there — you can find shark teeth and other Myocene Era remnants along the shore. Bring along a picnic, as there are no concessions. Hours are sunrise to sunset, and admission is $5/vehicle for MD residents, $7/vehicle for non-residents.

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Filed under 2018, All ages, Art, DC, Educational, Exhibit, Free, Indoor Play, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Museums, Music, Nature, Outdoor, Summer, Theatre, Virginia, Weekdays

Tagged as DC Kids Activities, DC outdoors, DC Weekday Activities with Kids, DC with kids, DMV Children, Family Fun, Free Things to do in Washington DC, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, Fun with Kids in Maryland, Fun with Kids in Northern Virginia, Independence Day, July 4th in DC, Kid Friendly Adventures in DC, Summer 2018, Summer Activites, Weekdays July 9-13

July 1, 2018 · 7:51 pm

Where to Play on the Weekdays:
July 2-6

Newsflash! Kids can enjoy free admission (and great city views) at the Newseum this summer

Monday – Enjoy free admission for kids to the Newseum! The annual Summer Fun Deal, which runs July 1 – Labor Day, waives the entrance fee for youth with one paid adult admission. The deal benefits kids ages 7 and up most, since children 6 and under always get in free, and much of the Newseum’s collection will be better appreciated by older children. Adult tickets are $24.95. For a museum outing with littler ones, head to National Postal Museum, a fantastic but often overlooked museum full of interactive exhibits that all ages can enjoy. Hours are 10am – 5:30pm, and admission is free.

Tuesday – Let children get creative with Red Panda Art Studio at a pop-up workshop. For the next month, they are offering twice daily workshops with changing themes Monday – Thursday and select weekend days for ages 2-9. Sessions will take place 10-11:15am and 4-5:15pm at the WAS Gallery in the Westwood II Shopping Center (5110 Ridgefield Rd in Bethesda, MD). Classes are $25/child. And for older kids (or a free outing), No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man at the Renwick Gallery is an exhibit that is sure to delight and impress. Hours there are 10am – 5:30, and admission is free.

In the evening, join the Palisades Citizens’ Association as they kick off this year’s Fourth of July festivities a day early with their annual Hoedown on the Green. Head under the big tent at the Palisades Recreation Center baseball field (5200 Sherier Pl NW) from 6:30-8:30pm for an evening of square dancing, an authentic pie-eating contest, and scooped ice cream for all. The Hoedown is a rain-or-shine event, entirely free, and appropriate for all ages!

Wednesday – Celebrate Independence Day! This round-up of July 4th events will guarantee you have a blast, fireworks or not.

Thursday – Keep the holiday spirit going with a day trip to Baltimore to visit Fort McHenry, the birthplace of “The Star Spangled Banner” and site of a key battle in the War of 1812. Learn about the history of the national monument through all kinds of interesting exhibits, both in the Visitors Center and throughout the grounds. Children will especially enjoy seeing the cannons, exploring underground spaces, and touring the barracks that now house lots of neat exhibits, including several interactives. Hours are 9am – 6pm. Admission to the historic area is $15 for ages 16 and up.

Friday – Play it cool at Ocean Dunes Waterpark in Upton Regional Park in Arlington. Slides, pools, splash areas, and more wet fun will keep kids happy for hours. Plus, there’s mini golf, a batting cage, and a snack shack, too! Hours are 11am – 7pm, and admission starts at $7.

Independence Day Celebrations Around DC

What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in our nation’s capital? This is where the actual Declaration of Independence is housed (and will be read!), and celebrations take place among some of the country’s most iconic landmarks. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. From fireworks on the National Mall and concerts at the Capitol to special events at George Washington’s house to neighborhood parades and ballpark fun, there are loads of ways to revel on July 4th (and 3rd!). Here are details on a bunch of them. Happy Independence Day!

Independence Day Celebration on the Mall
Where: National Mall, DC
When: July 4, all day (and evening)
Admission: Free
After the parade (even earlier for some), the National Mall will begin filling up for a day of July 4th festivities — the Smithsonian Folklife Festival from 7th to 12th Streets, Junior Ranger activities, concerts, and more. And the grand finale of it all: At 9:09pm, the sky above will explode with color when the amazing iconic fireworks display. Fireworks will be launched from the Reflecting Pool area, so plan accordingly. *If you want to view the fireworks without having to head to the Mall, see these suggestions from WTOP for other vantage points to view the display.

A Capitol Fourth
Where: West Lawn on the Capitol | Capitol Hill, DC
When: July 4, 8pm; gates open at 3pm
Admission: Free
Down past the other end of the Mall, A Capitol Fourth, the annual Independence Day concert that airs live on PBS, will feature even more musical pageantry. John Stamos will be back to host this year’s show, which will include performances by The Beach Boys, Pentatonix, Jimmy Buffet, Andy Grammer, The Temptations, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Choral Arts Society of Washington, the U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, and many more exciting acts. (KFDC tip: Enjoy the show with less crowds at the dress rehearsal on July 3 – same time and place!)

4th of July Summer Party
Where: The District Wharf | Southwest DC
When: July 4, 12-4pm
Admission: Free
The Wharf is ringing in 242 years of American independence with a kid-friendly party on Transit Pier. The celebration starts at 12pm with live music from local kids’ band Rocknoceros that will have little ones rolling with laughter. Listen and watch, or queue up for face painting, games, and a waterslide on the pier. For the adults in the crowd, the Waterfront Beer and Wine Garden opens at 1pm for drinks and snacks, and Thongband will play live, patriotic music at 2pm!

Fourth of July at the National Archives
Where: National Archives | National Mall, DC
When: June 30 – July 4
Admission: Free
The celebration starts early at the National Archives with special activities everyday starting this Saturday — see the schedule for details. On the July 4th holiday, catch the annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. There will also be historical guests, patriotic music, and family activities before and after that.

America’s Pastime
Where: Nationals Park | Capitol Riverfront, DC
When: July 3, 6:05pm & July 4, 11:05am
Admission: Ticket prices vary
A day at the ballpark is about as all-American as it gets when it comes to sports, and you can experience it and celebrate the holiday at Nationals Park. Kick off Independence Day on July 3rd, when the Nats play the Red Sox and enjoy a postgame fireworks show. The July 4th game is all part of the Patriotic Series. Before you go, be sure to check this post for tips to save on a Nats game.

Better than fireworks may be the looks of awe and joy as kids watch them

Fourth of July at Cedar Hill
Where: Frederick Douglass National Historic Site | Anacostia, DC
When: July 4, 9am – 9:30pm
Admission: Free
Join the National Park Service to honor history and to celebrate 200 years of the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass and celebrate Independence Day with special activities. See living history actors recreate Douglass giving his famous speech “What to the slave is the Fourth of July?”, where he challenged America’s celebration of freedom while many people still remained enslaved. Earn a limited edition bicentennial Jr. Ranger badge, enjoy live musical performances, and tour Douglass’ home. Visitors can also experience the power of place by viewing the fireworks on the National Mall from Cedar Hill, just like Douglass would have.

July 4th Climb & Celebration
Where: Adventure Park at Sandy Spring | Sandy Spring, MD
When: July 4
Admission: $56/age 12+, $47/age 7-11, $12/age 5-6
Spend the holiday in the trees and enjoy a day of climbing, zip lining, and American spirit before you head out to see fireworks. They’ll have an All-American playlist to keep you in the patriotic mood. Don’t forget to wear your red, white and blue!

Falls Church 4th of July Celebration
Where: George Mason High School | Fairfax, VA
When: July 4, 7pm
Admission: Free
The City of Falls Church Recreation and Parks Department will present its annual free July 4th Celebration at George Mason High School (7124 Leesburg Pike). Musical entertainment begins at 7pm with a live performance, and fireworks follow at 9:20pm. Blankets and flat-based chairs are allowed for seating on the field. Food and drinks will be sold on site.

Star-Spangled Spectacular
Where: Oregon Ridge State Park | Cockeysville, MD
When: July 3
Admission: $22-25/adult, $11-15/child
For something a little different than the usual DC July 4th festivities, head north to Oregon Ridge Park in Cockeysville, MD, on Tuesday. You can spread out a blanket or set up chairs on the sloping green lawn amidst a gorgeous setting as the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra performs their Star-Spangled Spectacular, culminating with a magnificent fireworks display. The starbursts in the sky as a live symphony plays is truly magical. The park opens at 5pm, and the show begins at 8pm both days. Be sure to note these parking instructions, as on–site parking is $15, but you can park off site and take a shuttle for free.

McLean 4th of July Fireworks
Where: Churchill Road Elementary School | McLean, VA
When: July 4
Admission: Free
McLean’s annual Independence Day Celebration returns to Churchill Road Elementary School. The fireworks show begins at sunset, approximately 9:15pm. In addition to the large fireworks display, patrons can come early to enjoy musical entertainment by a local disc jockey, as well as food trucks selling a variety of entrees and snacks.

Crabs & Ice Cream
Where: Brookland’s Finest | Brookland, DC
When: July 4
Admission: The cost of your eats & treats
Brookland’s Finest will be celebrating the holiday with a crab feast and a local ice cream pop-up. The restaurant will serve Maryland blue crabs with sweet corn, red potatoes, and andouille sausage in a spicy Old Bay broth with flights of Right Proper Brewery beers for from 11am – 10:30pm. Top it off with some ice cream! Bri’s Brookland Creamery will serve $4 scoops of ice cream ($3 for kids scoop) on the patio from 12-5pm, featuring brown sugar vanilla, strawberry, cookies & cream, chocolate brownie, and mint chocolate chunk flavors.

Picnic Baskets to Celebrate
Where: Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken | DC & VA
When: Pick Up July 4
Cost: $55
More like a how to celebrate than a where, Astro Doughnuts & Fried Chicken is offering a special summer picnic basket at their DC and Virginia locations. Each basket includes Astro’s signature fried chicken, cole slaw, cheddar biscuits, and, of course, doughnuts. Astro’s ‘USA doughnuts’ are included in the package along with Peach Cobbler and Creme Brûlée Doughnuts. It will be available for pick up on July 4 from 8am – 5pm at G Street and from 8am – 8pm at Falls Church. Pre-orders must be placed online by 3pm on July 3. Limited quantities of baskets will be available for walk-ins.

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Filed under 2018, All ages, Annual, DC, Free, Holidays, Live Entertainment, Maryland, Outdoor, Parade, Special Event, Summer, Virginia

Tagged as 2018 Independence Day Events, DC Activities with Children, DC Special Events, Family Activities, Family Fun, Fun Things to do with Kids in the Washington DC Area, July 4th in DC, July 4th in Maryland, July 4th in Northern Virginia, Kids Activities, National Independence Day Parade, National Mall Fireworks

June 28, 2018 · 3:53 pm

Scenes (and the Scoop) from the 2018 Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Have a royally good time at the Festival!

Every summer the Smithsonian Folklife Festival brings a celebration of living cultural heritage to the National Mall, showcasing different regions around the world through a variety of hands-on activities, performances, demonstrations, and exhibits for all ages to enjoy. It’s one of DC’s most anticipated annual events, and this year’s event kicked off yesterday with Catalonia and Armenia in the spotlight.

It’s running through July 1, then July 4-8, and I highly recommend going at some point. I just spent a few of hours there and came straight home to post this, so I could share info and images right away — it’s that good. The only negative for me was that Owen and Sasha weren’t there to enjoy it, too. Going to the Folklife Festival is somewhat of a summer tradition for us, but they are both at sleep away camp for the next couple of weeks. (Yes, KidFriendly DC is, ironically, KidFree for bit. But not to worry… I have a backlog of cool adventures I’ll be blogging about!)

Knot tying in an exhibit about maritime Catalonia

One of my favorite things about the Smithsonian Folklife Festival is the many opportunities to get hands-on. Artisans, performers, and other experts from the highlighted places come here to present their work and traditions behind them, and most welcome visitors to participate, too. In the Catalonia area I worked on a mosaic tile piece that will become part of a larger mural. I learned about Festa Major de Gràcia, an annual celebration in Barcelona, that includes large-scale neighborhood art installations created mostly from recycled materials. I helped cut plastic bottles and paint the curly strips and flowers made from them to be applied to a structure that will become DC’s own Festa piece.

Be the otter!

Kids, actually make that everyone, will also enjoy seeing beautiful giant puppets (some that they let you try on!); music and dance performances; metal, clay, and wood artisans at work; and cooking demos of traditional cuisine. There are also rug weavers and lace tatters making beautiful pieces while you watch in awe. And even more amazing art and heritage is there to discover. Food from both cultures is available for purchase, and there are bar areas on both sides, too, if you’re so inclined.

The Faves Salad is a fave

All of this takes place in tents and booths on the sides of the Mall, so there is a lot of shade from the trees. Of course, you can easily pop into one of the museums if you need a break from the heat (or a restroom).

A few other Festival programs will provide even more cultural insight and experiences. On the Move explores how we experience migration in our everyday lives. Crafts of African Fashion showcases apparel from African countries as works fo art and demonstrates how cultural enterprises sustain communities and connect generations on the continent. And on July 8, there will be an evening concert tribute to Sisterfire festivals produced in DC in the 1980s.

Working with hot metal

Festival hours are 11:30am – 6pm each day it runs, with evening concerts most nights at 6:30pm. It’s set up on the Mall near the Smithsonian Castle, Freer|Sackler Gallery, Natural History Museum, American History Museum. To get there, I recommend taking Metro or biking to the National Mall*. The Smithsonian stop on the Blue/Orange line is most convenient, and L’Enfant on Blue/Orange & Yellow/Green is also nearby.

*Be aware that the National Mall can get crowded during this time. Besides the influx of tourists to DC during the summer, the July 4th celebration draws even more crowds. That said, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival is wonderful and worth braving the crowds and high temps to experience. Admission to all of it is free.

For more information, including the schedule of events, visit the Festival website. And for a glimpse of what’s there, check out the photos below.