The nation's capital is an exicting place to be on Independence Day! Join the many patriotic festivities taking place in honor of America's birthday, visit the nation's memorials dedicated to those who served our country, or enjoy recreational opportunities in one of the many DC area national parks.
11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m., Constitution Avenue NW between 7th Street and 17th Street
National Independence Day Parade
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! The parade kicks off at 11:45 a.m. at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW and proceeds west to 17th Street. Learn more here.
2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sylvan Theater (southeast grounds of the Washington Monument)
Operation Independence! Family Scavenger Hunt
Calling all junior spies! Report to the National Park Service information tent in front of the Sylvan Theater (near the intersection of 15th Street SW and Independence Avenue SW) and use the password Operation Independence! to embark on a scavenger hunt and learn about spying techniques during the American Revolution. This family activity is geared towards ages 10 and up and involves approximately a half mile of walking around the Washington Monument grounds.
2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Independence Day Junior Ranger
Celebrate Independence Day by becoming a Junior Ranger! Pick up a Junior Ranger activity booklet at any National Park Service information tent on the ground of the Washington Monument, then complete the fun, self-guided activities to learn about America’s history, parks, and symbols of freedom. Return your completed booklet to a ranger at any info tent to be sworn in and receive your special Fourth of July Junior Ranger badge!
2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Fourth of July Family Fun at the Jefferson Memorial
Celebrate Independence Day with engaging, family-friendly activities at the Jefferson Memorial! From 2 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on July 4, the Family Fun Area invites visitors of all ages to connect with the spirit of 1776 through interactive programs:
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Independence Day Trivia: Test your knowledge of America’s founding with fun and educational trivia questions for all ages.
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Story Time: Gather for ranger-led readings of children’s books that explore the history of Independence Day and the life of Thomas Jefferson.
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Sign the Declaration: Step into the shoes of the Founding Fathers with our giant reproduction of the Declaration of Independence—add your name alongside Jefferson’s experience what it might have felt like to take part in history.
These activities are free and open to the public—come celebrate the Fourth of July where history lives!
2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Ranger Talk - Jefferson & Adams: Founding Friends, Fierce Rivals
Join a National Park Service ranger for a special Independence Day talk exploring the remarkable relationship between Thomas Jefferson and John Adams - allies in revolution, adversaries in politics, and friends at the end. Learn how their ideas shaped the Declaration of Independence, their visions for the young republic diverged, and how both men died on July 4, 1826—50 years to the day after that founding document was adopted.
The program is free and open to the public; no registration required. Talks will last approximately 20 minutes and take place on the plaza of the Jefferson Memorial.
8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., West Lawn of the United States Capitol
A Capitol Fourth Concert
This star-studded salute to Independence Day is broadcast live from the West Lawn of the United States Capitol and is free and open to the public. Gates open at 3 p.m. More at www.pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth.
9:09 p.m. to 9:27 p.m.
Fireworks on the National Mall
The National Park Service will once again host the annual Independence Day fireworks celebration on the National Mall, the nation’s most important civic space and home to more than a dozen memorials that commemorate great Americans and significant events in our nation’s history. The display will be held on Friday, July 4, starting at 9:09 p.m. and will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
Additional details for attending the July 4 fireworks display, including access points along the National Mall, prohibited items and road closures, will be released later this month. Complete information and updates on the Independence Day celebration can be found at www.nps.gov/foju.
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.
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Special EventsJoin the festivities in Washington, DC, including the Independence Day Parade, Fireworks Display, and the Salute to America.
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Plan Your VisitFind information to plan your trip around town on July 4, including directions, closures, security, and safety tips.
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Social Media & AlertsShare your DC Fourth of July experience on social media! Stay informed with alerts and fun-facts about the DC monuments.
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Photos and MultimediaView photos and videos of Independence Day festivities and preparations on the National Mall.
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History of Independence DayTake a moment to reflect on why millions of Americans gather for celebrations across the country on July 4th every year.
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Making the Fourth HappenEver wonder what it takes to put on a show for Independence Day in the nation's capital? Learn more about behind the scenes.
Last updated: June 27, 2025