Celebrating the Fourth of July in the Nation’s Capitol
July 1st, 2008 Categories: Alexandria, Things to Do
If you live within 50 miles of this blog (Alexandria, VA) and have never celebrated the Fourth of July on the Mall - well, what are you waiting for!
Take a look at the day’s schedule and then ask yourself - how can I not do this? Whether you make it a full day trip or just mosey in for the evening’s spectacular concert and fireworks, you’ll be glad you did.
Democrat or Republican, native born American or naturalized citizen, young or old, single or married, this is a celebration that brings out the best in everyone.
Start the day with a good breakfast and then head to Constitution and 7th Streets for the annual Independence Day Parade with marching bands, military and specialty units, floats and VIP’s.
The parade kicks off about 11:45a.m. but it’s always crowded so arrive early for a good seat. Once the parade is over you have several options for the afternoon:
The National Archives will offer special family events and a birthday party celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence from 10:00am to 9:00pm.
The White House Visitors Center will have games, crafts, and other activities celebrating the Fourth with National Park Service Rangers on hand from 10:00am to 3:00pm.
The United States Air Force Band with special guests Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers will play on the Southwest corner of the Washington Monument grounds at 6:00pm.
And in the midst of all this, the Smithsonian Folk Life Festival is in full swing . . .
The, finally, the big finale - the Capitol Fourth Concert and Fireworks. Admittance begins at 3:00pm on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building.
No tickets are necessary but visitors are subject to security screening. Picnic baskets and blankets are fine but please don’t pack any glass.
The National Symphony Orchestra takes center stage at 8:00pm and joining them this year, among others, will be Jimmy Smits, Taylor Hicks and Huey Lewis and the News. The concert is followed by a spectacular display of fireworks over the Washington Monument.
It’s a proud moment and one of the best birthday parties you’ll ever attend. See you there,
Michael
