going deeper

This year is set to be the biggest Independence Day fireworks celebration in DC yet. So whether you're looking for the best place in the city to view them, or one of the many area fireworks in a town nearby, we've put together this handy guide.

Washington, DC (July 4, 8-9:30pm)

Fireworks will be launched from West Potomac Park which will provide some additional viewing areas this year. See the maps and details from the National Park Service. 

In addition to the extra fireworks, this year’s celebration will include military bands, flyovers by Air Force One, the Blue Angels and other military aircraft. Find more about the parade here. 

*Fireworks may be cancelled due to inclement weather. The National Park Service says you can stay up to date with automated alerts by texting JULY4DC to 888777.

Where to view the fireworks in DC? 

• From the Mall and Monuments  
• From Northern Virginia
• Other good spots around DC  

Public Transportation is the best way to go! Map your route here. 

The heat could pose a risk if you're going to be staking out your spot in the afternoon. Here are some safety tips and how to deal with the heat.

MARYLAND

• Annapolis (July 4) 
• Antietam Battlefield (July 6) 
• Baltimore (July 4) 
• Carroll County (July 4) 
• Charles County Fair (July 4) 
• College Park (July 4) 
• Columbia (July 4) 
• Frederick (July 4) 
• Germantown (July 4) 
• Greenbelt (July 4) 
• Indian Head (July 4) 
• Kensington (July 4) 
• Laurel (July 6) 
• Mt. Airy (July 3) 
• Poolesville (July 4) 
• Rockville (July 4) 
• Saw Mill Creek, Anne Arundel County (July 3) 
• Six Flags (July 3 - 6) 
• Waldorf (July 4) 

VIRGINIA

• Arlington and areas to see DC’s fireworks - Lone Bridge Park info 
• Fairfax (July 4) 
• Falls Church (July 4) 
• Fredericksburg (July 4) 
• Great Falls (July 4) 
• Herndon (July 4) 
• Leesburg (July 4) 
• Lovettsville (July 3) 
• McLean (July 4) 
• Manassas (July 4) 
• South Riding (July 3) 
• Vienna (July 4) 
• Waterford (July 3) 

PENNSYLVANIA

• Gettysburg (July 4)