Photo by Claudia Rauch
The Fourth of July is one of my very favorite holidays to spend in DC– especially on Capitol Hill. From concerts to parades to cookouts, every corner of our neighborhood celebrates in a small-town way that makes me so grateful to live here. After last year’s rainout, I’m even more determined to enjoy every bit of the holiday this year. Get out your planner and pencil, and start figuring out how you will hit all of the best festivities!
Saturday and Sunday, July 1 and 2
The Red, White & Brew Wine and Beer Festival returns to Yards Park. Enjoy one of our neighborhood’s prettiest parks and river views while kicking back with food and drinks. It’s a bit on the pricier side, (tickets range from $29-$89) it sounds like so much fun!
If you want to enjoy Yards Park without going to the festival, I highlighly recommend taking advantage of the kayak rentals from the Ballpark Boathouse, or paddleboard rentals from Capital SUP.
Monday, July 3
Beat the crowds! The big A Capitol Fourth concert that is played on the Capitol lawn every year –and on your local PBS station– has a full rehearsal on Monday evening that is open to the public. You get to hear all the same music, and take in the beautiful views, but with a fraction of the crowd. The rehearsal starts at 8PM; I recommend showing up between 6 and 7 with a picnic to get a good spot.
Tuesday, July 4
Parade Time! The annual neighborhood parade –now in its sixteenth year– kicks off at 10:00AM along 8th Street SE, beginning under the 695 freeway (8th and I Streets, SE). The parade then heads up 8th Street SE toward Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. Anyone is welcome to join in this festive affair. Families, school groups, businesses, or community groups, all are welcome to sign up. To register, please contact Phil Guire, Grand Marshall of the parade, at philguire@gmail.com. As a reminder, the parade will take place rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.
Cool off with some movies: Eastern Market Main Street is hosting a movie day in the North Hall of Eastern Market with a double feature. Catch Despicable Me at 11:30AM and The Wizard of Oz at 2:00PM.
Fireworks! While not all of us like fireworks, I really do love a good professional show. Many years I have walked down to 3rd and Independence SW, getting there just 10 minutes before the fireworks started. Since everyone stands up for the show, I have been able to slide in and get a decent view. Then, a quick walk home! If you know someone with a rooftop view in the neighborhood, that is your best bet to enjoy them while avoiding crowds.
Safety Reminder: It’s the time of year when all sorts of amateurs will experiment with pyrotechnics. Please remember that most fireworks are not legal in DC for a reason. We have a handy guide to what you can and cannot blow up in your nearby park here.
Thanks for these helpful tips for the 4th! I love all the resources you provide and a having place I can look to find out what’s happing in town whenever there’s special events.