Independence Day in the nation’s capital is a celebration like no other in the country. The city comes alive with new life, patriotic spirit, and numerous activities honoring the birth of our nation – including a massive fireworks display over the National Mall.
Everyone is welcome to watch the National Park Service’s annual fireworks display on the National Mall, which begins at 9:30 p.m. on July 4. However, restaurants, hotels and other venues will also host parties with breathtaking views of the fireworks.
We’ve got our eye on the District’s most exciting fireworks parties for this Fourth of July. This list has something for every mood and age, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly event, a fancy rooftop party, or a free, star-studded concert on the U.S. Capitol lawn.
Get ready to make unforgettable memories under the stars as you watch the sky light up red, white and blue. Grab your blankets, round up your loved ones and read our guide to find the perfect spot to enjoy the dazzling fireworks this Independence Day.
Fireworks Parties in DC
In this summary, the events are listed in order from cheapest to most expensive.
Fourth at The Wharf
Time: 5pm-10pm
Price: Free
What you should know: Familyfriendly
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Join us for the Independence Day festivities at District Pier at The Wharf from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. This free celebration features live country music on four stages from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and great views of the fireworks over the National Mall.
Food and drinks are available around The Wharf. You can bring a low-backed chair to District Pier, but arrive early as space is limited. The Wharf can close access if necessary.
A Capitol Fourth
Time: 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; admission 3:00 p.m.
Price: Free
What you should know: Child-friendly
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For over 40 years, A Capitol Fourth, The nationally televised celebration of the country’s Independence Day is a favorite of Washingtonians. This year, the event on the Capitol lawn will feature a roster of all-star performances, including Smokey Robinson, Fantasia, Fitz & Noelle (of Fitz and the Tantrums) and Sister Sledge.
The concert is free and open to the public; no tickets are required. Gates to the West Lawn are expected to open at 3 p.m. and concertgoers will have a great view of the fireworks.
The Line Hotel
Time: 6pm – 10pm
Price: Free with RSVP
What you should know: Food and drinks available
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Watch the fireworks and enjoy specialty cocktails on the rooftop of the Line Hotel in Adams Morgan. The event will feature upscale American fare from No Goodbyes and a jazz performance by Brandon Woody’s band Upendo.
Upstairs at The Morrow
Time: 6:00 p.m.–10:30 p.m.
Price: $35
What you should know: Standing room only
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Upstairs at the Morrow is hosting an Independence Day celebration on its vibrant rooftop in downtown NoMa. The event will include panoramic views of Washington DC, a barbecue buffet by Le Clous Michelin-starred chef Nicholas Stefanelli, refreshing cocktails and live music. Buffet reservations are sold separately.
Sea Suite Cruises
Time: Departure times vary
Price: 70 to 200 US dollars per person
What you should know: Drinks sales on board
🔗 Details
Celebrate America’s birthday with a boozy cruise down the Potomac River. Sea Suite Cruises offers the chance to sail around the nation’s capital while sipping drinks on their Fourth of July paddle and tiki boat tours, which depart from Georgetown, Navy Yard and The Wharf. Join a group tour or rent a private boat to watch the fireworks from one of the best vantage points in the city.
The Ardent
Price: $125 or $275
Time: 6:00 p.m. (dinner) or 8:30 p.m. (roof party)
What you should know: Food and drinks included
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The Fourth of July Independence Day dinner party at L’Ardente adds an Italian flair to the celebration.
Guests will be whisked to the Capitol Crossing rooftop conservatory where they can enjoy a private fireworks party with champagne and the “L’Ardente Dessert Extravaganza” with wine and a sparkling wine bar. The glass-enclosed and air-conditioned space offers views of the Capitol and fireworks from 13 stories above the city. When the weather permits, guests can enjoy an additional outdoor lounge on the open-air terrace.
Tickets for the rooftop celebration are $125.
Guests who choose dinner will be treated to an exclusive dining experience designed by Chef David Deshaies. The deluxe dinner consists of three courses including soft shell crab tempura, lobster ravioli and halibut.
VUE roof
Time: 6pm-10pm
Price: $149 to $2,450
What you should know: Food included
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Experience the 4th of July like never before on the Vue Rooftop Terrace of the prestigious Hotel Washington, just a short walk from the White House.
Gather with friends or go solo to enjoy an Independence Day celebration with breathtaking views of the Washington Monument and National Mall. Dress in your best summer attire and join other guests for an evening of elegance and patriotism. Indulge in a classic 4th of July dinner buffet and drinks are available for purchase at the bar. This event is for guests 21 and older and ticket prices may increase as the event approaches.
Salamander DC
Time: 5pm-8pm
Price: $175 to $265 ($75 for children ages 4 to 12)
What you should know: Food and drinks included, child-friendly
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Celebrate America’s Birthday in style at Salamander DC’s new Grand Lawn and Garden overlooking the Washington Marina. This year’s event features live entertainment, food, drinks and activities for the whole family. Dining options include fresh oysters and local seafood at the hotel’s Raw Bar, classic American dishes at the Big Green Egg Grill and a festive ice cream bar.
After the event, take a short walk to the National Mall to see the annual fireworks display!
City Experiences Fireworks Cruises
Time: Departure times vary
Price: 175 to 275 US dollars
What you should know: Dinner cruises available
🔗 Details
City Experiences’ 4th of July Independence Day Dinner Cruises on the Potomac River depart from The Wharf Marina and Alexandria and are one of the best ways to watch the fireworks over Washington, DC. Choose one of the unique dinner experience cruises or plan your dinner in advance and board the water taxi to watch the fireworks.
On top of the gate at the Watergate Hotel
Time: 6pm-10pm
Price: $175 to $595
What you should know: Food and drinks included
🔗 Details
The elegant rooftop bar and lounge of the Watergate Hotel offers 360-degree views of the Washington Monument, Potomac River, Key and Arlington Bridges, Kennedy Center and the DC skyline. General admission tickets include an open bar with wine, beer and spirits.
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