The nation's capital is gearing up for a massive celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. On July 4th, millions of Americans are expected to descend upon Washington, D.C., to take part in the festivities.
The city will be abuzz with record-setting parades, military flyovers, and fireworks on the National Mall. However, the celebrations also come with road closures, suspension of commercial flights, and restrictions on boat traffic.
On Friday, July 3rd, the annual "A Capitol Fourth" concert will take place on the West Lawn of the Capitol grounds, followed by a fireworks display at Mount Vernon. The concert will feature performances from country music singer Trace Adkins, the National Symphony Orchestra, the Joint Armed Forces Chorus, and several other music groups and conductors.
On Independence Day, several events will occur across the district. In the morning, the National Archives will host its annual July 4th celebrations, which will include live music, arts and crafts, and a ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence at 10 a.m.
The annual National Independence Day Parade will start at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, featuring displays from every state and a variety of costumes and performances representing the entire United States. Visitors can also head to the Great American State Fair, which runs from June 25 to July 10.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy military flyovers and musical performances on the National Mall, beginning at 1 p.m. In the evening, there will be several fireworks shows, including the Salute to America National Mall fireworks at 10:30 p.m. and a new, second fireworks show on the Anacostia River.
Road, river, and airport closures will also be in effect due to the festivities. The Metropolitan Police Department has issued a traffic advisory, stating that boaters will face restrictions on the Potomac River from 9 a.m. on July 4 to 9 a.m. on July 5.
The following roads will be closed on July 4 from 4 a.m. to midnight for the parade and fireworks display: Inbound Case Bridge ramp to 12th Street tunnel, Jefferson Drive from 15th to 3rd Street, SW, Madison Drive from 15th to 3rd Street, NW, Independence Avenue from 14th Street to Ohio Drive, SW, and several other roads.
Additionally, the following roads will be closed from 1 p.m. on July 4 until midnight: 23rd Street from Virginia Avenue to Washington Circle, NW, and 3rd Street from D Street, NW to Independence Avenue, SW.
The Great American State Fair will also have several road closures from June 24 through July 11, including 7th Street from Constitution Avenue, NW to Independence Avenue, SW and 4th Street from Pennsylvania Avenue, NW to Independence Avenue, SW.
