Washington, DC

There are few better cities to celebrate the 4th of July than the Nation’s Capital as far as wanting a historically significant setting for the holiday goes. It certainly is not really the top, as Boston and Philadelphia could claim better historic settings, but as a continuing important place for our government, Washington, D.C., certainly ranks up there in places to celebrate the 4th of July.

A Capitol Fourth - This annual concert is held on the West Lawn of the Capitol grounds. If you cannot get here in person or just do not want to deal with the crowds, you can watch the show on PBS starting at 8pm. Performers this year include Taylor Hicks, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Brian Stokes Mitchell. Last year I was walking around taking night photography of the Capitol on July 2nd and you could get really close to the stage and watch some of the performers doing rehearsal. Pretty fun concert experience that I happened upon and that is saying something since I usually hate concerts.

Fireworks Over the Washington Monument - The show begins at 9:10pm weather permitting. There are many places to watch it around the District and across the river. One of the best places is sitting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, but you probably should stake out your area early if you plan on sitting anywhere on the National Mall. Public Access to the Mall begins at 10am on the 4th.

4th of July Parade - The National Independence Day Parade is held on the traditional D.C. parade route of Constitution Avenue. It goes between 7th street and 17th street. The parade begins at 11:45pm and is expected to continue for 2 hours.