Happy 250th Independence Day to all!
The DMV is bringing in America’s birthday in exciting ways, from festivals and local farmers markets to good-ole country line dancing.
Check out a handful of the many events happening this weekend — and dive into the Washington Informer Calendar for more.
Thursday, July 2
Creators for Democracy: A Civic Festival
5 p.m to 9 p.m | Free
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G Street NW, Washington, D.C, 20001
Join D.C.’s favorite creators and community builders for activities on photography, business building, design, fashion, storytelling, and health. Explore interactive maker stations, a creator marketplace, and incredible food and music.
This is for every kind of creator building the fabric of civic life, and for each community member who believes democracy is a living, evolving practice.
7 p.m to 11 p.m | Free
Tiki on 18th, 2411 18th Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20009
Take a bite out of the scariest event happening Fourth of July Weekend— a retro “summerween” campout at Tiki on 18th in Adams Morgan! Enjoy a zombie while listening to classic tiki, surf, exotica, world, and rock music. DJ Cinema Hearts will also be dipping into her collection of rare 1950s-1960s Halloween vinyl. Hear cuts like “Monster Surfing Time,” “The Blob,” “Werewolf” and more.
Dress on theme! The vibe is summer camp, Hawaiian shirts, Fourth of July, “Are You Afraid of the Dark?,” “Goosebumps,” “Jaws,” “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” and Scooby Doo.
Friday, July 3
Country Line Dancing at The Wharf
7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Free
Transit Pier at The Wharf, 970 Wharf Street SW, Washington, D.C., 20024
Grab your cowboy hat and boots – Country Line Dancing with DC Rawhides is back!
Boot, scoot and boogie in true America 250 fashion with lively country dancing welcoming all ages and skill levels. Dance along to a high-energy mix of classic country and rock tunes by Shawn Parsons & The Secret Service.
7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.| Free
DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20036
Enjoy great stand-up comedy in downtown D.C. The showcase lineups feature top talent from the DMV and beyond, performing on one of the country’s most famous stages.
Audiences will see a variety of styles and get up close with some of the stars of tomorrow. Showcases generally last around 90 minutes. This Friday showcase will feature Patrice Deveaux, Ross Benoit, Justo, Jack Coleman, and David Balagizi.
Saturday, July 4
July 4th at the National Archives
8:30 a.m.- 10 p.m. | Free
National Archives Museum, 701 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20408
Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the Fourth of July with the National Archives. For more than 50 years, the Archives has celebrated the founding of the United States with a patriotic celebration that includes a ceremonial reading of the Declaration of Independence.
This one-of-a-kind event takes place on the museum steps, and there is room for everyone to join in the fun.
What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?
10 a.m.- 1 p.m. | Free
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, 1411 W Street SE, Washington, D.C., 20020
Celebrate Independence Day and the nation’s 250th anniversary with the National Park Service at Frederick Douglass National Historic Site’s annual event: “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”
Hear recitations by a reenactor who portrays the renowned abolitionist and the winner of the Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest, tour Cedar Hill, and participate in a public reading of the Declaration of Independence!
Navy Yard July 4th Block Party
4 p.m.- 10 p.m. | $12.45 to $28.45
The Bullpen, 1201 Half Street SE, Washington, D.C., 20003
Get ready for 15+ DJs, live music, drink specials, pop-up experiences, a hot dog eating contest, fireworks, and nonstop party energy from doors open to nightfall. From pre-fireworks drinks to full-blown party mode, this is your all-access pass to one of DC’s biggest July 4th celebrations.
One ticket. Three venues. One massive Navy Yard Block Party.
Doors open at 4 PM. Red, white, and blue encouraged.
Sunday, July 5
Old Town Main Street Market – First Sundays
12 p.m to 4 p.m | Free
Old Town Fairfax, 10428 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030
Check out this free, family-friendly curated street market with 15+ local small businesses bringing vintage finds, handmade goods, unique gifts, and holiday shopping treasures.
The Main Street Market pops up the first Sunday of each month in Old Town Fairfax. Whether hunting for fashion, digging for vintage gems, or looking for holiday shopping, the Main Street Market is a chance to shop and support small and local businesses.
Washington Nationals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
1:30 p.m to 3 p.m | Free
Nationals Park, 1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, D.C., 20003
Join the excitement as the Washington Nationals take on the Pittsburgh Pirates at Nationals Park. Fans will enjoy an evening packed with thrilling baseball, great food, unforgettable moments, and the electric energy that makes game day in Washington, D.C., one of the city’s favorite summer traditions.
