As the Fourth of July approaches, Washington, D.C., gears up for spectacular events and activities to celebrate America’s independence. Whether you’re a local or visiting the nation’s capital, there’s no shortage of things to do. From historical tours to dining hot spots, here’s a roundup of the best ways to spend your Independence Day in DC
Fireworks on the National Mall Catch the awe-inspiring fireworks on the National Mall, a historic and patriotic display that promises to be unforgettable. The US Park Police will again be using a text notification service to deliver important and emergency information to visitors quickly. Cell phone users can receive notifications via text message by texting JULY4DC to 888777.
Boat Tours Kick off your celebrations with various boat tours around the city’s iconic landmarks. Nautiste and Paddle Club offers a fleet of paddle boats, tiki boats, retro boats, and Whitlow’s on Water. These highly-rated cruises and boat rentals in Georgetown, The Wharf, and Navy Yard offer stunning views and a unique city perspective. The DC Waterfront has transformed into a vibrant community with many hospitality options and newly developed marinas.
Independence Day BBQ & Celebration at Salamandar’s Middleburg Terrace, where you can listen to live music, play fun lawn games and enjoy an All-American Buffet featuring local ground beef burgers, a cut-to-enjoy Watermelon Station, and much more. Visit Eventbrite to reserve. Cash bar available. Ticket price includes parking. July 4, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Bayou Bakery in Arlington, VA, will present handmade Mini Patriotic Pies—Strawberry and Blueberry—perfect for America’s big birthday. Enjoy Star-Shaped Sugar Cookies with Red, White, and Blue Icing, and stock up on grab-n-go sides like Watermelon & Feta Salad, Creole Mustard Slaw, and Pimiento Cheese. Refresh yourself with White Sangria featuring Blueberries and Strawberries. Open every day on July 4th from 8 AM-4 PM with brunch.
Last Call Bar is kicking off the Fourth of July with an all-day party on July 3 from 5 PM to 2 AM. Cool down with Rocket Poptails—an icy treat submerged in a chilled Vodka Soda—and grab some fun swag. The festivities continue on July 4 from 12 PM-2 AM with drink specials like $8 Bell’s Oberon Brews, $8 New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Juicy Haze IPA, and $10 Truly Cans with a Shot.
Tiki TNT offers expansive rooftop views of the District Wharf, the Potomac waterfront, and the National Fireworks Show. Their Fourth of July Viewing Party from 7 PM-10 PM includes a welcome drink and beachy bites from the a la carte menu. Bookings on Resy include guaranteed seating from one of the two outdoor patios.
L’Ardente Tickets are moving fast for L’Ardente’s third annual 4th of July celebration! Choose between dinner plus the rooftop viewing party or the rooftop party only, which includes wines, bubbles, a DJ, and dessert bites. The special three-course dinner features the season’s freshest seafood and produce paired with wine. Dinner and party tickets are $275 per person or $125 for the rooftop party only. Dinner begins at 6 PM, and the viewing party starts at 8:30 PM.
Jack Rose Dining Saloon – Celebrate the Fourth of July with an all-day “Sunny Days” rooftop happy hour featuring $10 frozen cocktails, half-priced bites, and a grill menu. Enjoy $5 beers, $9 glasses of rosé, and more from 3-9 PM. The rooftop will offer a fresh look with lush plants and foliage lining the bar. Seasonal summer cocktails and bar bites will be half-priced all night.
Hank’s Oyster Bar – Woman-owned Hank’s offers their famous lobster roll kits for 2 ($60) or 4 ($120), perfect for New England-style picnics for July 4th weekend or any relaxing summer afternoon. The kits include everything you need for ready-to-assemble Hank’s Lobster Rolls with classic sides. Stay in the Wharf to watch the Wharf’s fireworks!
Ciel Rooftop, the K Street hot spot atop the AC Hotel, boasts a rooftop made for firework-viewing, with a nearly 360-degree wrap-around balcony. Guests are invited to celebrate the Fourth with a three-hour open bar, heavy-passed hors d’oeuvres, live music, and party favors! Tickets begin at $180 and are available here.
Treehouse Rooftop Can’t decide between a quick jaunt to Mexico and staying in town for D.C.’s iconic Independence Day festivities? Experience both at Union Market’s Treehouse. Perched five stories above the Hotel Nell, this Tulum-inspired rooftop lounge offers campy craft cocktails and internationally influenced small plates with a side of stunning firework views. Food and beverage minimum-reservations begin at $50 and are available here.
Sushi by Bou, D.C.’s hottest new omakase experience atop the CitizenM Washington Capitol hotel, boasts epic views of the Capitol building and the Washington Monument. On the Fourth, Sushi by Bou will only offer its “bougie” menu at the counter, which features 17 omakase courses for $125. Enjoy the restaurant’s disco vibe while watching fireworks from one of the city’s best rooftops. Reservations are available here.
Crimson Rooftop is another excellent option for those seeking a lively bar scene. With a great selection of drinks and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s perfect for celebrating with friends. The place to be on July 4th. Join us at our rooftop bar in downtown D.C. for the best view of the Capital Fireworks! $50 includes your first drink. Tickets are available now.
The Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown offers American specials on July 4 from 1 PM-11 PM in the Lobby Lounge and Courtyard. Enjoy Fried Chicken, D.C.’s Signature Half Smoke, and Lemon-Berry Firecracker Cake. Specialty cocktails include Spiked Peach Ice Tea and Watermelon Margarita.
Celebrate Independence Day with sophistication and style at Salamander Washington DC and experience the newly transformed Grand Lawn and Garden overlooking the Washington Marina. Enjoy culinary delights, live entertainment, and experiences for the entire family, including a DJ, Brass Band, renowned caricature artist, and more. Learn more here.
Patriotic Macarons at Lauderee Don’t miss out on these patriotic macarons available in Georgetown. These colorful and delicious treats are perfect for adding a sweet touch to your celebrations.
Atlas Brew Works’ Navy Yard Brewery & Tap Room Celebrate the Fourth of July with award-winning beer and pizza from 10 AM to 12 AM. Atlas Brew Works Nationals Park will open early at 10 AM for guests to imbibe before the Washington Nationals game at 11:05 AM.
Fireworks Watch Party at Skydome! Skydome Restaurant invites guests to celebrate the Fourth of July with dinner, drinks, and unbeatable views of Washington D.C.’s annual fireworks show. Choose between the Fireworks Watch Party in the Sky or the Family-Friendly Fireworks Watch Party in the Monument View Room. Reservations are required for both events and are now available on OpenTable.
JULY 3 – On Wednesday, July 3rd, celebrate everything the 703 area has to offer! From local business vendors on the concourse to an incredibly exciting post-match fireworks show, there’s something for everyone at a Loudoun United FC match. LUFC hosts Hartford Athletic at Segra Field on July 3rd at 6:15 PM.
JULY 6 – Chesapeake by the Maritime Museum Combine your love of history and seafood at Chesapeake with Big Band Night. This spot offers educational exhibits alongside delicious seafood dishes, making it a well-rounded destination for the holiday.
ALL JULY LONG – Celebrate National Ice Cream Month in July at Blue Duck Tavern, Park Hyatt Washington D.C., with an afternoon pop-up patio ice cream social. Enjoy new house-made ice cream and sorbet flavors created by Executive Pastry Chef Colleen Murphy, priced at $8 per serving. Indulge in flavors like Harry’s Berries Strawberry Ice Cream, Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Tart, Salted Honey Ice Cream, and Rhubarb Orange Blossom Sorbet from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM daily.
AUGUST 3 – Unlimited Beer Tasting at the All American Beer Fest Beer enthusiasts will love the All American Beer Fest, where you can enjoy unlimited tastings of various craft beers. It’s a great way to sample new brews and celebrate the holiday. The All American Beer Fest celebrates America with unlimited tastings of America’s finest beers, select seltzers, and wines. Rock your red, white, and blue and prepare for a full day of star-spangled entertainment in our Nation’s Capital on Saturday, August 3rd.
With so many exciting options, Washington, DC promises an unforgettable Fourth of July. Whether looking for historical tours, delicious food, or vibrant nightlife, the nation’s capital has something for everyone.
