The National Mall Independence Day celebration is a breathtaking commemoration of the birth of a nation. The fireworks show begins just after 9 pm on the night of July 4th, and with thousands of visitors each year, it is important to know where to go and when to get there.
The fireworks launch from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Visitors wishing for an up close view, must arrive early and gather near the Reflecting Pool, staying outside of the fenced safety zones. Those in close proximity to this area are advised to wear protective eye and ear products. Following the fireworks, clean-up crews will need to clear the area around the Pool's perimeter of debris. Guests will need to avoid these areas until all clean-up is complete. This may cause delays in exiting following the fireworks display.
Washington Mall July 4 Fireworks
Most visitors will want to view the fireworks at a distance from the launch site. The best viewing areas are the U.S. Capitol area, the Lincoln, Roosevelt, or Jefferson Memorials, or the National Mall between 14th Street and 3rd Streets. Other great viewing areas include the White House Ellipse, the West Potomac Park, Benjamin Banneker Park, Anacostia Park, or U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial). The East Potomac Park is ideal for families with young children as there is ample space for kids to run around. Many hikers and cyclists gather along the Mount Vernon trail for views of the fireworks.
Area restaurants offer great sights of the show while enjoying dinner. Check out Beacon Bar and Grill on Rhode Island Ave, NW or Charlie Palmer Steak on Constitution Avenue. Diners at Indigo Landing, in Arlington Virginia, can enjoy an all-you-can eat buffet while overlooking the July 4th fireworks over the river.
Unique Fireworks Events Near Washington DC
Check out a rare display of daytime fireworks at Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. Mr. and Mrs. Washington visit while guests are treated to smoke fireworks in patriotic colors. An added bonus is the opportunity to watch the naturalization ceremony as 100 people become new US citizens. Open from 8 am to 5 pm, visitors to Mount Vernon on July 4th can also expect military reenactments and a wreath laying ceremony. There is a fee for admission.
A Fourth of July dinner cruise on-board the Odyssey provides stunning views of Washington DC during the night time fireworks show. Live entertainment, dinner and an open bar are part of this adult-only three hour cruise. The Spirit of Washington is another option for an adults only July 4th dinner cruise. Families are welcome aboard for a lunchtime Independence Day cruise.
Expect large crowds in the Washington DC vicinity for the July 4th celebration. Reservations are needed for restaurants, hotels and cruises around the area. Arrive early (3-4 pm) to claim a spot for the evening fireworks show, taking care to avoid areas where trees or the large tents may block the view. Check the National Park Service site for the most up-to-date information on the celebration in the nation's capital.
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