Every year on July 4th, various events are held across the United States to celebrate Independence Day. Among them, Washington D.C., being the nation’s capital, hosts a wide range of events with diverse content.
Two of the most popular events are the Independence Day Parade, which takes place around 11 a.m. along Constitution Avenue, and the Capitol Fourth Concert, which starts around 8 p.m. at the West Front of the United States Capitol. In addition to these, there are many other events throughout the day, including concerts at the Washington National Cathedral and the Kennedy Center, culminating in the grand fireworks display.
Since these events often have overlapping schedules due to different organizers, planning your day efficiently is essential. Washington D.C. is relatively small compared to other major cities, and transportation is well-developed, but on 4th of July, it can get crowded with both tourists and locals, which might cause some delays in travel.
To help you make the most of your 4th of July celebration in Washington D.C., here are some tips:
4th of July in D.C. Means Longer Daylight Hours
Independence Day, on July 4th, falls during the period with the longest daylight hours of the year in the United States. Additionally, daylight saving time is in effect during this period, making the day feel even longer compared to Japan.
In D.C., around 4 a.m. (3 a.m. in regular time), the eastern sky starts to brighten, and by around 6 a.m., it feels like full daylight. The darkness sets in quite late, around 9:30 p.m. (8:30 p.m. in regular time). With about two extra hours of daylight compared to Japan, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the day’s festivities.
Start Your Day with Deciding Which Events to Attend
If you’re spending 4th of July in Washington D.C., consider attending at least two events or one event and using the rest of your time to visit museums and government facilities. To maximize your experience, attending one event in the morning and another in the afternoon is recommended. For example, you can watch the Parade along Constitution Avenue around 11 a.m. and then head to the Capitol Fourth Concert starting at 8 p.m.
Keep in mind that both events attract large crowds, so arriving early at your chosen location is essential to secure a good spot. Alternatively, you can enjoy the Capitol Fourth Concert from the comfort of your hotel room while having room service dinner, as the event is televised.
Arrive Early for the Parade
The Parade, featuring cavalry units and individuals dressed in uniforms from the time of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, is a lively and popular event. The parade starts at the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Constitution Avenue, and it runs towards the Ellipse, located south of the White House along 17th Street.
One of the recommended spots to watch the parade is near the National Archives, where you can capture great photos of both the parade and the National Archives building. Since this area is close to the starting point of the parade, it can get crowded quickly. Therefore, arriving early is advised.
In case of rainy weather or for those who are not comfortable with the heat, the Washington National Cathedral is recommended
The parade, a hallmark of the celebration, is a lively event. However, during this time of the year, the daytime temperatures can still exceed 86 Farenhight, and the humidity makes it feel quite muggy. Additionally, the parade takes place on asphalt roads, and spectators stand on concrete sidewalks, resulting in considerable heat reflecting from the ground.
Furthermore, summer in Washington D.C. is also the season for thunderstorms, and there is a high probability of experiencing them during the parade. Therefore, some preparation is necessary if you plan to attend.
As an alternative, the Washington National Cathedral hosts a concert, which is highly recommended. The concert starts at the same time as the parade, around 11 a.m., and lasts for about two hours. The cathedral’s stone structure provides a cool environment even during the peak of summer, and all attendees can sit comfortably to enjoy the concert.
After the concert, the cathedral remains open until 5 p.m., allowing visitors to take their time exploring the interior and the south side, where the Bishop’s Garden is located. There are also shops and cafes within the premises, providing a relaxing atmosphere to leisurely enjoy like a local resident.
Though the cathedral is located a bit far from the central National Mall area and is situated in a residential neighborhood, it offers a quiet and serene environment to experience tourism. However, if you plan to enjoy the concert at the cathedral, it’s recommended to take action early, as good seats tend to fill up quickly.
Overall, the Washington National Cathedral offers a great alternative for those seeking respite from the heat and potential rainy weather while still enjoying the Independence Day celebrations.
Don’t Miss the National Archives
Amidst all the excitement of the events and celebrations, don’t forget to visit the National Archives, which houses the original copy of the Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776. This historical document, along with other significant materials like the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights, can be viewed free of charge without prior reservation.
The National Archives in Washington D.C. serves as a sanctuary for the...
However, photography inside the archives is prohibited, so consider purchasing replicas at the museum shop if you want a memento.
The Highlight of the Day: Fireworks Viewing
4th of July is known for its spectacular fireworks displays across the country. For the best view in Washington D.C., head to the National Mall. The fireworks are launched between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, reflecting beautifully on the Reflecting Pool.
Popular spots to watch the fireworks are on Pennsylvania Avenue north of the White House, Georgetown’s Waterfront Park, or from the Virginia side of the Potomac River in Arlington. However, keep in mind that these places also get crowded quickly, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Start Early to Make the Most of the Day
4th of July, as one of America’s three major holidays, attracts not only people from all over the country but also international tourists, creating a vibrant atmosphere. To make the most of your day, it’s crucial to research and plan in advance which events you want to attend.
With longer daylight hours, consider waking up a little earlier than usual, take a morning walk, and plan your day over breakfast. This way, you can start your day with a sense of accomplishment and make the most of your time in Washington D.C.
Enjoy the essence of celebrating Independence Day in the nation’s capital!
