Where to Celebrate the Fourth of July in D.C.

by Ken Davids

Step up your celebration and take part in the festivities taking place throughout the day on July 4th.

Boom With a View (Photo courtesy of Daniel Swartz).

Thousands of people fill the District every year to celebrate the nation’s independence and enjoy local music, food and fireworks. This year marks America’s 242nd birthday, and the holiday event lineup is nothing short of spectacular.

Boom with a View (21+)

Celebrate in style at the annual terrace event, which features a beautiful overlook of the National Mall sunset and the evening fireworks. Guests are invited to enjoy the open bar, as well as live music and a selection of specially-crafted refreshments.

Date/Time: July 4th at 6:30pm-10:30pm (fireworks start at 9:15pm)

Location: POV Terrace at W Washington DC

Price: $275 per person (21+ only)

Contact: (202) 661-2400

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown.

Red, White & BBQ (Pre and Post-Fireworks Barbecue)

The hotel’s landscaped courtyard provides the perfect backdrop for this festive evening BBQ. To accommodate those who prefer eating before or after the fireworks, Executive Chef Jordi Gallardo will be serving up a selection of all-you-can-eat delectables — burgers, grilled jumbo shrimp, half-smoked beer brats, house-made coleslaw and more — all throughout the night. There will also be an interactive ice cream station, complete with a unique variety of flavors and toppings.

Date/Time: July 4th at 5:30pm-8:00pm and 9:30pm-11:00pm

Location: Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown

Price: $30 for adults, $15 for children 12 & under

Contact: (202) 457-5020

A Capitol Fourth

Over the years, this annual PBS event has become a DC staple with its rich history of performers and entertainers. This year’s headliners include The Beach Boys, Pentatonix, The Temptations and the National Symphony Orchestra, all performing a special selection of patriotic music on the lawn.

Date/Time: July 4th at 6:00pm (gates open at 3:00pm)

Location:
US Capitol Building West Lawn

Price: FREE

Contact: 4thcomments@capitalconcerts.org

Photo courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown.



Fourth of July in The Yard

Escape the blazing heat and stop by The Yard for a refreshing drink and bite to eat. Located under a tent of trees, this area is the perfect spot to enjoy $10 coupes of frose while trying out a selection of gourmet twists on all-American classics, including mini corn dogs with honey batter, a refreshing watermelon and feta salad and a bacon-wrapped hot dog.

Date/Time: July 4th at 12:00pm-11:00pm (3:00pm-7:00pm Happy Hour for discounted drinks and more)

Location: The Yard at the Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown

Price: Drink and food prices vary

Contact: (202) 912-4100

Photo courtesy of Rosewood Washington, D.C.

4th of July Rooftop Celebration (All ages)

Make plans to spend the evening at Georgetown’s landmark hotel and enjoy an al fresco celebration on the rooftop, offering a panoramic view of the city’s skyline. A holiday-inspired array of refreshments will be available, including burgers, Maryland blue crab cakes, cherry pie tarts and an ice cream sundae station.

Date/Time: July 4th at 5:30pm-9:30pm

Location: Rosewood Washington, D.C.

Price: $125 per person, $45 per child

Contact: (202) 617-2400

Photo courtesy of George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

An American Celebration at Mount Vernon

Those looking to avoid the crowds can enjoy a relaxing day at the home of George Washington, America’s first president, while still participating in the patriotic festivities. Enjoy free birthday cake while watching a lineup of historic reenactments, a special band performance and a daytime fireworks show over the Potomac River.

Date/Time: July 4th at 8:00am-5:00pm

Location: Mount Vernon

Price: $18 per person (children FREE and online discounts available)

Contact: (703) 780-2000

Related Articles