Even those who never head out to Fourth of July fireworks might be thinking of an outing for the nation’s 250th birthday this year.
Montgomery and Prince George’s counties offer several fireworks displays, many paired with additional festivities that include DJs, food trucks, kiddie carnivals, live bands and even mechanical bull rides.
There’s at least one July 3 option, but most events begin Saturday — the holiday — well before sunset.
The National Mall is also an option. The Trump administration is touting the “largest fireworks display in history” this year, with 850,000 shells to be fired in about 40 minutes. President Donald Trump is expected to give a speech before the pyrotechnics, which start at about 10:30 p.m., later than usual.
Here’s what you need to know about events closer to home — where to watch, what time to show up and what else is happening beyond the fireworks.
Montgomery County
Montgomery County kicks things off a day early with a 250th anniversary twist on its annual fireworks. Expect performers in Revolutionary War-era dress and live musicians. On-site parking will be available for individuals with disabilities. All other attendees may park at Westfield Wheaton (11160 Veirs Mill Road, Wheaton) and, starting at 6:30 p.m., take a free shuttle to the event.
When: Friday, July 3, 7-10 p.m.
Where: Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Mill Road, Kensington
South Germantown Recreational Park hosts “Germantown Glory,” celebrating the county’s 250th anniversary. The TFC Band takes the stage at 7 p.m., and the fireworks start a few hours later. The park welcomes blankets, lawn chairs and coolers. On-site parking and food vendors will be available.
When: Saturday, July 4, 7-10 p.m.; fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
Where: South Germantown Recreational Park, 18041 Central Park Circle, Boyds
The annual Independence Day celebration in Rockville features live music from Run For Cover, a greeting from the mayor, a performance of the national anthem by Victorian Lyric Opera Company, and plenty of food vendors. Free parking is available in lots along Shady Grove Road, Gaither Road and Piccard Drive.
When: Saturday, July 4, 7-10 p.m.; fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
Where: Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park, 1800 Piccard Drive, Rockville
The Upper Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department donates its time to put on an evening of fireworks. Expect food trucks as well as music by the rock band Special Delivery. Parking is $10 per car, cash only. More parking information is available on this map.
When: Saturday, July 4, 5-9 p.m.; fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
Where: Intersection of Hughes Road and Sugarland Road, 15598 Hughes Road, Poolesville
Prince George’s County
Now in its seventh year, Bladensburg’s fireworks celebration leans into the town’s roots, pairing music from DJ Flava, pony rides and food trucks with historical exhibits. A limited amount of free on-site parking will be available. For additional parking options, please call the town hall in Bladensburg at 301-927-7048.
When: Thursday, July 2, 6-9:30 p.m.
Where: Bladensburg Waterfront Park, 4601 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg
Light Up the Night with District Heights rounds out the early celebrations with its standalone fireworks show. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy the show.
When: Thursday, July 2, 7-10 p.m.
Where: 2000 Marbury Drive, District Heights
Buddy Attick Lake Park hosts a full day of festivities celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Highlights include art activities, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and live performances by Pocket Change and Greenbelt Honk! Situation.
When: Saturday, July 4, 3-10 p.m.; fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
Where: Buddy Attick Lake Park, 555 Crescent Road, Greenbelt
The city of Laurel celebrates all day, with a parade, a kiddie carnival from Jolly Shows, family games and live music by Oracle. Fireworks launch from the lake later in the evening.
When: Saturday, July 4, 3-10 p.m.; fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
Where: Granville Gude Park, 8300 Mulberry Street, Laurel
Morningside’s annual Fourth of July celebration begins with a parade at 11:30 a.m., followed by Family Fun Day in Patterson Park, featuring games, prizes, music, food trucks and a mechanical bull.
When: Saturday, July 4, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; fireworks at dusk
Where: The field across from Benjamin D. Foulois School, 6901 Ames St., Morningside
Comments
Welcome to The Banner's subscriber-only commenting community. Please review our community guidelines.