Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia will be celebrating the 4th of July in 2025 with a variety of festivities, including parades, fireworks, and family-friendly events. There are also some celebrations taking place before the 4th of July! Here's a rundown of some known celebrations. Be sure to click the links for more information.
In Washington, D.C., make plans to attend A Capitol Fourth. A dress rehearsal is held July 3 and the main event is held July 4. Entrance to the West Lawn area of the Capitol begins both days at 3 p.m. Expect lots of security, metal detectors and best to take the Metro instead of driving. Read more about the day's activities here from the National Park Service.
Fairfax County:
- City of Fairfax Independence Day Parade, Evening Show, and Fireworks (July 4):
- Parade: Kicks off at 10 AM, looping around Downtown Fairfax along Chain Bridge Road, Main Street, University Drive, and Armstrong Street. This is one of the largest parades in Virginia.
- Evening Show and Fireworks: Held at Fairfax High School (3501 Lion Run, Fairfax, VA) from 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM, featuring live music, food vendors, and a spectacular fireworks display after dark.
- Activities begin at 6:30 PM at Bready Park (814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, VA), with fireworks starting around 9:30 PM. Free admission.
- Great Falls Hometown Celebration and Fireworks at Turner Farm Park (July 4):
- Morning: Little Patriots Parade for babies and toddlers, followed by the main parade at 10 AM with floats, horses, antique cars, and more. Festivities continue until 12:30 PM with field games, music, and food.
- Evening: Gates open at 6 PM at Turner Farm Park (925 Springvale Rd, Great Falls, VA) for live music, games, contests, and food trucks. Fireworks start around 9 PM.
- Lake Fairfax Park Fireworks and Family Fun (June 29):
- The park opens at sunrise with food trucks available from noon to 9 PM. The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole will also be open (separate admission). Fireworks are expected shortly after 9 PM. Advance vehicle parking is $20, day-of is $25 (bicyclists and pedestrians enter free).
- Town of Vienna Fireworks (July 2):
- Celebrate America's birthday with a fireworks show and live music from the band "So Fetch" at Yeonas Park. Live music starts at 6 PM, followed by fireworks at 9:30 PM.
- Workhouse Lorton Fireworks (June 28):
- From 6 PM - 10 PM, offering a dazzling display. Advance tickets save $5.
- From 6:30 PM - 10 PM.
- Mount Vernon: An American Celebration (July 4):
- While not featuring evening fireworks, enjoy a made-for-daytime fireworks show over the Potomac River, military re-enactments, and a naturalization ceremony at George Washington's estate. Admission required. Also make plans to attend Mount Vernon on June 27 and June 28 for live music and evening fireworks.
- Firecracker 5k for the Troops (July 4):
- A 5K run at Reston Town Center (Reston, VA) at 8:00 AM. Registration fees apply.
Alexandria City:
- USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration (July 12):
- While not on the 4th, Alexandria celebrates its birthday with a performance and fireworks in Old Town Alexandria from 6 PM - 9:45 PM.
Arlington County:
- Views of National Mall Fireworks: Many locations in Arlington offer excellent views of the fireworks over the National Mall, including the Iwo Jima Memorial, Long Bridge Park, and the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
- Military Women's Memorial 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks (July 4):
- A private extravaganza at the Military Women's Memorial (Memorial Ave & Schley Dr, Arlington, VA) from 7 PM - 10 PM. Tickets will be required, so stay tuned for details.
Loudoun County:
- Leesburg Independence Day Parade and Concert & Fireworks (July 4):
- Parade: Begins at 10 AM in Downtown Leesburg.
- Concert and Fireworks: Gates open at 6 PM at Ida Lee Park (60 Ida Lee Drive NW, Leesburg, VA) for music, food, fireworks, and fun.
- Dirt Farm Brewing 4th of July (July 4):
- Celebrate with farm-fresh beer and food. At 1,100 ft. elevation, you can see multiple firework displays across the Loudoun Valley. The property closes to non-ticket holders at 4 PM. Tickets recommended.
Important Notes:
- This is a preliminary list, and details may change as the date approaches. It's always a good idea to check official city and county websites for the most up-to-date information, including times, locations, and any potential changes or cancellations.
- Many events may have bag checks and other security measures in place.
- Consider arriving early for popular events to secure parking and a good viewing spot.