Washington DC celebrates the nation's birthday on the Fourth of July with some of the city's biggest events of the year. Independence day is known for BBQ and waving the red, white, and blue, and fireworks. Find all that and more on and around the National Mall, and schedule yourself a fun-filled day of great patriotic events.

The National Mall is a great place to start, with a parade, concert, folklife festival, and fireworks all nearby. In addition, the Mall has all of its usual attractions, including the US Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial. If you want to spend some time indoors on the nation's birthday, the National Museum of American History couldn't be more relevant. Stop inside for exhibits about the United States, including the presidents and the flag which was the original Old Glory.

2013 Memorial Day Events

Fourth of July Fireworks

A wonderful display of fireworks is presented ever 4th of July over the reflecting pool near the Lincoln Memorial. With the setting of the National Mall and its monuments, this is a "can't-miss" event if you're in the DC area. The show typically starts around 9:15PM, but find a viewing place early, since it is unfailingly a crowed event. In addition to the National Mall, rooftop bars, cruises on the Potomac river, and parks in nearby Arlington (Gravely park, Long Bridget Park, the Iwo Jima Memorial, and the Air Force Memorial) are popular viewing areas.

Independency Day Parade

Start the Fourth of July with the Independency Day parade. Filled with a variety of marching bands, floats, and other attractions, the parade marches along Constitution Avenue between 7th and 17th st. The parade begins around 11:45AM.

A Capitol Fourth

An annual concert is held on the West Lawn of the US Capitol Building each year on the Fourth of July. The concert runs from 8PM to 9:30PM, leading into the fireworks on the National Mall. Admission is free, and begins at 3PM. (If you're looking to avoid some of the crowds, check out the free dress rehearsal, held on July 3rd).

Smithsonian Folk Life Festival

The Smithsonian Institute puts on an annual festival celebrating and sharing cultures from around the world. The event, located on the National Mall, will be held June 26–30 and July 3–7, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Some evening events begin at 5:30 p.m. The festival includes displays of music, food, and dress from around the world.