As you might expect, Washington D.C. pulls out all the stops when it comes to celebrating the 4th of July. This year will prove no different. There will be many celebrations and events across the city, but the most spectacular will undoubtedly be the fireworks. Stake out a seat on the National Mall, or reserve a spot on one of the river cruises to see fireworks light up the sky across the District of Columbia.
There are not many cities more patriotic to celebrate the 4th of July than Washington DC. A parade will begin at 11:45 am along Constitution Avenue between 7th and 17th streets. Attendees will then get the opportunity to celebrate Independence Day on the west lawn of the United States Capitol Building at a concert that will feature military bands, classical music orchestras, and celebrity pop and rock artists. The commemoration will conclude with a spectacular firework show at 9 pm. You can view it from the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall, or the Potomac River in Arlington. This celebration is free and open to the public.
The Smithsonian Folklife Festival allows attendees to connect and explore cultural similarities and differences. In an effort to educate and historic preservation, cultural traditions, both old and new, will be displayed at the National Mall. There will be performances, presented research, curated exhibits, and even a marketplace with goods from international artisans. Festival events are free and open to the public. Additional information can be found online.
The annual Capital Fringe Festival will return this year. You will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy unforgettable live performances, which will take place over a 14-day span. The festival celebrates and encourages freedom of expression and will feature over 100 unique, censorship-free productions across various venues in the DC area. Additional information, including a complete schedule and ticket details, will be available online.
The Broccoli City Festival returns in 2023 for a two-day festival featuring the best of Hip Hop from across the country on July15th - 16th, 2023. The festival is organized by the community organization Broccoli City, which promotes sustainable living and community engagement.
Celebrate the Storming of the Bastille at the French Embassy's Bastille Day Celebration. The event includes a sit-down dinner featuring dishes from the Côte d’Azur region paired with champagne and Pastis, followed by a performance from a live band, an operetta, and a silent auction. Spots are limited so reserve a table now.
Experience a day of authentic, rich, and vibrant culture at the 7th annual International Colombian Festival. The festival strives to educate local and touring attendees while bringing the DC Latino and Colombian communities together. Look forward to a full day of authentic Columbian food, art, gastronomy, music, folklore, and more. Limited early bird tickets are $10 online, prices will increase to $25 at the door.
Otakon, one of the biggest annual conventions for fans of anime, manga and Japanese culture, is set to take place from July 28th-30th at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Attendees can look forward to a vast array of interactive panels, live stage shows and screenings plus an impressive exhibit hall packed with vendors selling everything from merchandise to rare collectibles.
