Hoping to get out of Washington for the Fourth of July? These charming towns and historical sites are hosting celebrations with parades, reenactments, and firework displays — plus none of the DC crowds and closures.
Williamsburg
Distance from DC: 151 miles
The holiday happenings in Colonial Williamsburg are all about history. Programming includes military drills, a chance to “meet” the Founding Fathers, music and marching by the Fifes & Drums, and more patriotic events. The day ends with a concert celebrating the country’s 250th birthday and fireworks, best viewed from the Palace Green. Tickets are required.
Annapolis
Distance from DC: 32 miles
In Maryland’s capital city, the Fourth of July festivities begin in the evening with a community parade through the downtown area at 6:30 PM. The US Naval Academy Band is performing a concert in Susan Campbell Park after the promenade. The night concludes with a fireworks display over Annapolis Harbor at approximately 9:15 PM. See the show from City Dock, the Naval Academy Bridge, and nearby waterfront parks.
Mount Vernon
Distance from DC: 16 miles
George Washington’s estate is celebrating Independence Day with reenactments, patriotic tunes, a naturalization ceremony, and family-friendly activities. (Ever play an 18th-century lawn game? Now is your chance.) Evening fireworks are sold out, but you can still attend a pyrotechnic show over the Potomac River at 1 PM. Purchase tickets online.
Frederick
Distance from DC: 46.5 miles
This town is celebrating the holiday with an afternoon festival in Baker Park starting at 12 PM. The party includes live music, food vendors, a bounce house, rock climbing wall, and more. A fireworks show begins around dusk.
Leesburg
Distance from DC: 40 miles
The annual parade kicks off at 10 AM, with the American Originals Fife & Drum Corps leading the charge. Spend the day exploring the lovely town, then head to Ida Lee Park at 6 PM for live music, classic fair foods such as funnel cakes and hot dogs, and a fireworks show at 9:30 PM.
St. Michaels
Distance from DC: 80 miles
Events span the weekend in this Eastern Shore town. There’s a parade on July 4 followed by kid-friendly activities outside the St. Michael’s Museum. On July 5, head to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum for Big Band Night ($12) and fireworks over the Miles River.
Baltimore
Distance from DC: 38.5 miles
Charm City celebrates the day with an artsy event for all ages. The Cherry Hill Arts and Music Waterfront Festival in Middle Branch Park starts at 1 PM, featuring art from local vendors, live music, reenactments, crafts, and a drone display at night. For fireworks, head to the Inner Harbor or Fells Point to watch pyrotechnics over the water at 9 PM.
