National Independence Day Parade
July 4th, 11:45am
The route starts at the corner of Constitution NW and 7th street NW, and ends at Constitution Ave and 17th street. The Parade consists of invited bands, fife and drum corps, floats, military and specialty units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams, VIP’s, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants. Seating can be found on the steps of the National Archives Building.
A Capitol Fourth Concert & Fireworks
July 4th, 8pm
Our nation’s biggest Independence Day celebration featuring the National Symphony Orchestra and a host of award-winning musicians. The event is open to the public, no tickets required, you can arrive as early as 3pm. Prior to the big fireworks show, here are some of the acts set to perform this year: The Beach Boys, The Blues Brothers, The Four Tops, Sophia Carson, and Trace Adkins.
Freedom Fireworks at Nationals Park
July 3, 6:05pm
Watch our hometown Nats take on the Mets, and stay following the game for a complimentary and patriotic fireworks display at Nationals Park. The teams meet again in at 11am on the Fourth, a traditional early start for the local team.
51st Annual Palisades Parade and Picnic
July 4th, 11am
The parade goes from Whitehaven Pkwy, down MacArthur, takes a left on Edmunds, a left on Sherier and ends at the Palisades Rec Center. Following the parade there’s a free picnic for all at the Rec Center featuring hot dogs, watermelon, drinks, live music and moon bounces organized by the Palisades Citizens Association.
Chevy Chase Independence Day Picnic and Parade
July 4th, 12pm
The parade begins at noon led by the Dixie Land Trio. Participants and volunteers can arrive at The Lawton Center by 11:30am to decorate bikes, scooters, wagons, and baby carriages. The Town provides decorating supplies. Residents are treated to Red, Hot & Blue BBQ and the famous Ben and Jerry’s ice cream truck.
22nd Annual Kensington Children’s Bike Parade
July 4, 10am
The Bike Parade will be held at Saint Paul Park, with participants lining up at 9:45am. The event is open to all kids, and those young at heart, that wish to decorate their bike, scooter, wagon or stroller and follow a Kensington Volunteer Fire Department truck through the streets.
Kensington Mid-County Sparkles Concert & Fireworks
July 4, 7:30pm
An annual tradition of music and fireworks for those looking for a smaller venue. The concert festivities start at 7:30pm and the fireworks are scheduled for 9:15pm. There are multiple food vendors on site. Albert Einstein School, 11135 Newport Mill Road.
The 17th Annual July 4th Autism Speaks 5K
July 4th, 8am
A family friendly 5K race with a one-mile walk is the largest 5K race for autism in the area and has become a community tradition. The fundraiser takes place at the Potomac Library (10101 Glenolden Drive) and is open to individuals or teams who want to help raise awareness about the cause. To register or volunteer, visit www.autismspeaks5K.org. ($35 before race day; $45 on race day; Children 14 and under $20 at all times)