4th of July Weekend Deals & Things to Do

While the 4th of July holiday may look a little different this year, there are still plenty of things to do. DC’s fireworks celebration is still on and the National Archives and National Cathedral are both hosting free virtual events. Whatever you choose to do, we hope you enjoy it and have a safe, happy and healthy holiday!

• Catch the DC fireworks – The fireworks will still be happening downtown this year. There will be over 10,000 fireworks launched at the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, visible for up to three miles (and from many downtown apartment rooftops). If you do decide to come down to see the fireworks, keep in mind Metro will be operating less than normal for the 4th weekend and guests are to stay socially distanced and wear a mask. The National Mall currently has a supply of 300,000 cloth face mass to be given out to fireworks attendees. For more information on the fireworks, click here.

• Check out the National Archives July 4th Virtual Festivities – Independence Day at the National Archives is always a huge celebration. This year will be no different, just online! Those who visit are encouraged to use the hashtag #ArchivesJuly4th. There are free crafting activities, cooking recipes to download, coloring pages and opportunities to read the words from the actual founding fathers. For more information, click here.
  
• Listen to the National Cathedral’s July 4th Concert – The National Cathedral is hosting a free online July 4th concert and tribute at 11 a.m. on Saturday. This year’s concert features “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Orchestra, gospel artist Michael W. Smith, opera star Denyce Graves and former Sen. Elizabeth Dole. You’ll need a pass to get in to the concert. Fill out the info here and you’ll get a link on July 4th with info on how to log in. Guests are asked to sign up by today, Thursday July 2nd.

• Visit Mt. Vernon – Mt. Vernon is still hosting their annual “An American Celebration” July 4th from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. While the interior of the mansion is closed due to pandemic restrictions, there are plenty of other things to do on the grounds. General Washington himself will read the Declaration of Independence at 9:30 a.m. and address guests at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. There’s also a Revolutionary War Military Demonstration set for 1:30 p.m. Advance tickets are recommended. For more information, click here. Adults ages 12 and up – $20, Youth ages 6-11 – $12, Children ages 0-5 – FREE.
  
• Capitol Hill Community Virtual Parade – Like many events this year, the Capitol Hill Community is hosting a free virtual Independence Day parade. The 18th annual affair will be an online parade of short videos from all the usual marchers in the parade, from bands to classic cars and more. For more information, click here.

• Enjoy some outdoor restaurants like Dacha Beer Garden Wet Dog DC – Some restaurants and outdoor dining are open! Dacha Beer Garden in Shaw and Navy Yard are open, with no reservations. It is first come, first served with a two-hour maximum time limit on tables. If all tables are full, you’ll be added to a virtual waitlist through the host or adding yourself through Resy. Once you are added to the list, you’re welcome to get a drink and snack to-go from the café and walk around Shaw until your table is ready. Wet Dog DC is the District’s first pet-friendly bar garden. Their Phase One opening hours on weekends are Fridays 4-11 p.m., Saturdays 2-11 p.m. and Sundays 2-9 p.m.