Where to Watch the Fireworks

Watching the fireworks in our nation’s capital is about taking part in the most exciting and patriotic July 4th celebration in the country -- not struggling through the crush of people to catch a glimpse of the sparklers.

With some preparation beforehand, you can make a plan for the big day and pick your fireworks spot in advance.

For the most convenience, take the Metro, which will run until 3 a.m. (with some changes in line routing ). The best way to get a good spot is to go early. The fireworks don't start until dark - usually around 9:15 p.m. - but with so much going on, why not spend the day?

The Independence Day Parade starts at 11:45 a.m. and runs down Constitution Avenue, starting at 7th Street and ending at 17th Street. Check out About.com's map of the route . The parade will be packed with floats, marching bands, and military groups. Bring a flag to wave and wear your red, white and blue!

Spend the afternoon visiting famous DC sites, and then get ready for the United States Air Force Band to play at 8 p.m. at the Airforce Memorial.

Remember that the Mall isn't the only place with a great view of the fireworks! This map shows other good places to watch, including spots around the Tidal Basin and along the Washington Channel. The Virginia side of the Potomac River and Key Bridge will also have clear views.

For an indoor viewing spot, try a restaurant with a view, like the roof of the Reef in Adams Morgan, the terrace at Tabaq Bistro on U Street, or the rooftop section of the Beacon Bar and Grill in Dupont Circle. Wherever you choose to watch the fireworks, be glad you're in DC: there's no better place to be on Independence Day!

Other local fireworks to catch:

Virginia

Fairfax High School

3500 Old Lee Hwy.
Fairfax, VA 703-385-7949

Independence Day Parade starts at in the Downtown Fairfax Historic District at10 a.m. and runs till noon, rain or shine. Old-Fashioned Fireman's Day starts at 12:30 p.m. and will feature a firefighter competition as well as food, beverages and games at 4081 University Drive. The evening show & fireworks will begin at approximately 7 p.m. at Fairfax High School, and will run until 10:30 p.m.

Rain date: July 5 - for fireworks only

http://www.fairfaxva.gov/specialEvents/IDC/IDC.asp

Fort Belvoir

Belvoir Rd. and Route 1
Fort Belvoir, VA 703-805-3030

Freedom Fest

Freedom Fest is 4 July at P-2 Field (on Rte.1) on Fort Belvoir. Enjoy food, vendors, and family fun with all your neighbors. Festivities begin a 5:00 p.m. and fireworks begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. Bring a blanket and enjoy!

http://www.belvoirmwr.com/

Herndon Community Center

814 Ferndale Ave.
Herndon, VA 703-435-6800

Free family-fun event featuring games, races, arts & craft activities, bounce houses, small rides, bingo and more start at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

http://www.herndon-va.gov/Content/Parks_rec/Special_events/4th_of_July_Celebration.aspx?cnlid=385

Maryland

Takoma Park Middle School

7611 Piney Branch Road
Silver Spring, MD 301-650-6444

At 7:00 p.m., the evening program begins at Takoma Park Middle School with a welcome by Mayor Bruce Williams. At 9:30 p.m. the celebration will culminate with a fireworks display.

http://www.takomapark4th.org/

University of Maryland - College Park

Baltimore Avenue and Rossborough Lane
College Park, MD 301-864-8877

The event’s refreshment stand opens at 5 pm., while the concert begins at 7 p.m. The fireworks kick off at dusk. In case of rain, the fireworks will be held on July 5th.

http://www.umd.edu/umnews/fireworks.html

Buddy Attick Park

555 Crescent Rd
Greenbelt, MD 301-397-2200

There will be a free kids' craft tent from 3 to 6p.m., then the Greenbelt Concert Band performs at 6:15pm. The Community Drum Circle will follow with a performance that starts at 7:30 and runs until 9:00p.m. The fireworks display will start at 9 p.m.

http://www.greenbeltmd.gov/

Our map of area fireworks:

View July 4, 2008 Fireworks Shows in a larger map