Takoma Park Fourth Of July 2018: Fireworks, Parade

TAKOMA PARK, MD — This is one of those classic Fourth of July celebrations. It includes a parade. It has live music. And, of course, it has fireworks.

It's the 129th annual Takoma Park Independence Day celebration, one of the oldest in the nation.

The festivities begin at 10 a.m. and ends sometime after the sun sets, but not before the grand fireworks display.

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The parade begins at 10 a.m. at 4100 at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues, rain or shine. It'll travel South on Carroll Avenue, turn right on Maple Avenue and continue to Ritchie Avenue where it will disband. The parade will last about two hours.

After that, the celebration moves to Takoma Park Middle School, at 7611 Piney Branch Rd., for evening events beginning at 7 p.m.

Following that comes the fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., with a rain date marked as the next clear evening.

Here's some important information:

• Dogs, with the exception of service animals, are not allowed at the evening fireworks show for health and safety reasons.
• Limited parking is available in the parking lot of the Takoma Park Middle School, and on nearby side streets. Takoma Park residents are encouraged to get to the event early so that they can park close by.
• Raffle tickets will be available at the Committee stand and from Committee members and volunteers out in the crowd.
• There will be food vendors along the fence at the Piney Branch Road end of the field, and at the top of the hill by the school. Vendors can apply here.
• Public rest rooms will be available in the Takoma Park Middle School at the top of the hill, at the entrance to Lee Jordan Fld (portable) and at the north perimeter of Lee Jordan Fld (portable).
• Takoma Park and Montgomery County Police officers will be on hand to ensure public safety, direct traffic and prevent unauthorized access to restricted areas. Likewise, the Takoma Park Volunteer Fire Department will be present with emergency equipment and personnel in case of fire or medical emergencies.
• All fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in Montgomery County.

>> Don't drink and drive this holiday. Find out how you can get a free Lyft Ride in Montgomery County this Fourth of July.

For more information, email ContactUs@TakomaPark4th.org.

UPDATE JULY 3: The 4th of July weather forecast for Prince George's County calls for steamy summer weather in the 90s, with high humidity making it feel closer to 100, so be sure to stay cool and hydrated as you enjoy fireworks. We may have some cloud cover, and there's a chance for storms later in the day, so keep an eye on that if you are headed out to watch the fireworks.

SEE ALSO: Republic Hosts Fifth Annual Freedom Fest

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