Fireworks Near Me: Washington, DC's 4th Of July 2021

WASHINGTON, DC — Coronavirus cases continue to drop across the country while the number of those who are fully vaccinated continues to rise, which means there is even more reason to celebrate this Independence Day. In the District of Columbia, officials lifted all capacity and other restrictions on June 11.

With July 4 almost here, it's time to find out what Fourth of July fireworks and festivities are going on in D.C.

Fireworks on the National Mall

Fireworks on the National Mall are returning to D.C. The 17-minute display will be held on Sunday, July 4, starting at 9:09 p.m. and will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

The National Park Service said that consistent with Centers for Diesease Control guidelines, people who are not fully vaccinated must wear masks indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces on the National Mall. Masks are required for everyone on all forms of public transportation. All the memorials, except the Washington Monument, will be open.

People visiting the National Mall for the fireworks should practice social or physical distancing, staying at least six feet away from others who are not a member of your household, according to the NPS.

To celebrate progress made in getting Americans vaccinated, President Joe Biden is planning to celebrate the July Fourth holiday as “a summer of freedom.” He will be hosting 1,000 medical workers, first responders, essential workers and military members on the South Lawn of the White House for the National Mall fireworks.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser joined Biden in expressing excitement about the upcoming July 4 festivities after more than 16 months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I echo President Biden’s enthusiasm and call on Americans nationwide to celebrate July 4th in Washington, DC," the mayor said. "With all capacity limits and restrictions lifted, cultural attractions are open and hotels are ready to welcome you back."

41st Annual Capitol Fourth Concert

The 41st annual Capitol Fourth concert on PBS will be pre-recorded, with singer and actress Vanessa Williams serving as host of the event from D.C. The concert will include pre-recorded performances by Jimmy Buffett, Gladys Knight, Alan Jackson, Jennifer Nettles and Renée Fleming. The Capitol Fourth airs on PBS on July 4 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. ET.

The National Symphony Orchestra will perform John Williams’ inspiring composition “Olympic Fanfare” in tribute to Team USA, honoring the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams as they prepare for the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Capping off the concert broadcast on PBS will be live coverage of the fireworks display on the National Mall captured by multiple cameras stationed around the city.

Capitol Hill Community 4th of July Parade

The annual Capitol Hill Community 4th of July Parade on Barracks Row begins at 10 a.m. on July 4. Groups can visit the parade website to register to participate.

"For 2021, we are pleased to announce that we'll be able to hold our traditional parade on Capitol Hill's Barracks Row this year," organizers said.

Palisades Parade

The Palisades Community Association plans to resume its annual Fourth of July parade. The parade starts at noon on July 4 at noon. It starts at the corner of Whitehaven Parkway and MacArthur Blvd. NW and ends at the Palisades Rec Center. Visit the association's website for more information.

Due to the pandemic, the D.C. government, the National Park Service and neighborhoods in the District may adjust or cancel events at the last minute. Check your event before you go. Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.