As you probably expected, 4th of July will be a little different this year. You won’t be waving your flag from the sidelines at the Independence Day Parade or putting your hand on your heart amongst thousands of other Americans at the National Archives ceremony. In the year of COVID-19, we can’t physically come together as we typically do on our country’s birthday. But you can bet that nothing will stop our nation’s capital from celebrating Independence Day in any and every way they can. And the best part? There will still be fireworks! Here are four ways to celebrate 4th of July in Washington, D.C.
#1 – Watch the Fireworks Just Like You Always Have
Thirty-five minutes of spectacular fireworks, set to a backdrop of Washington, D.C.’s most iconic memorials and monuments. It just doesn’t get any better than that. It’s one of the few traditions that will not stop with COVID restrictions because there’s plenty of room to social distance if you’re smart about it. The National Mall is the best view in the house, but it will also be the busiest. They’ve included new viewing spots this year: The World War II Memorial, Reflecting Pool, and Constitution Gardens. Also consider watching from across the Potomac River.
- Details: 4th of July, 9:07 pm to 9:42 pm., weather-permitting.
- Sign up for automated alerts by texting JULY4DC to 888777.
#2 — Watch ‘A Capitol Fourth’ from Your Couch
It’s the 40th anniversary celebration of A Capitol Fourth, a national tradition on PBS. Typically held on the West Lawn of the US Capitol, this year’s concert will be pre-taped without a live audience. The silver lining? They will have performances from all over the country by Patti LaBelle, John Fogerty, Renée Fleming, The Temptations, Trace Adkins, Andy Grammer, Yolanda Adams, Brantley Gilbert, Lauren Alaina, Chrissy Metz, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Kelli O’Hara, and Mandy Gonzalez and the National Symphony Orchestra. Not to mention a special tribute to our first responders, and all the people putting their lives at risk now on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis.
- Details: 4th of July at 8/7c on PBS.
- http://www.pbs.org/a-capitol-fourth/home/
#3 — Watch the First-Ever Virtual National Archives July 4th
For 50 years, the National Archives has celebrated Independence Day in a very traditional way by reading the Declaration of Independence on the Museum steps. This year, it’s all virtual. You can expect everything from opening remarks from Thomas Jefferson and discussions with Abigail Adams and other historical figures, to the special presentation of the National Archives reading ceremony.
- Details: 4th of July, Ceremony begins at 11 AM
- http://www.archivesjuly4.org/schedule/events
#4 — Celebrate America’s Independence by Getting Outside!
Since we still want to practice social distancing, what better way to celebrate the fourth of July than with a trip in nature with the family? Little Bennett Campground in Montgomery County offers the getaway you’re looking for without getting too far from your Chevy Chase or Bethesda home. They’ve got miles of hiking trails and biking trails throughout 3,700 acres of forest and meadows. There are 91 wooded campsites, 3 cabins, 2 yurts, and a variety of activities for kids of all ages.
Details:
- Montgomery Parks Little Bennet Campground
- Address: 23705 Frederick Rd, Clarksburg, MD 20871
- Phone #: 301-528-3430
- https://www.montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/little-bennett-regional-park/little-bennett-camping/
