Special Events and Information for the 4th of July and America’s 250th Birthday Celebrations in Washington, DC
FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zone Washington D.C On The National Mall
June 11 – July 16, 2026
Washington, DC, between 4th Street and 3rd Street.
A celebration of competition, community, and the American spirit on the National Mall. As the world’s greatest soccer tournament comes to the United States, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zone Experience will serve as a gathering place for families, fans, and visitors to enjoy live match broadcasts, interactive activities, and great food in the heart of the nation’s capital. Set among the monuments and memorials that tell America’s story, the experience will showcase the energy, hospitality, and optimism that define our country. As America approaches its 250th birthday, the Fan Zone will offer a unique opportunity to celebrate the excitement of world-class competition.
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The Great American State Fair
June 25 – July 10, 2026
National Mall in Washington, DC, between 14th Street and 4th Street.
A world-class exposition and modern-day World’s Fair celebrating the people, traditions, innovations, and spirit that make America the greatest nation on Earth. Featuring more than 150 exhibits from all 56 states and territories, businesses, innovators, and civic organizations, the Great American State Fair will showcase the very best of America through state pavilions, industry displays, family-friendly attractions, movie screenings, musical performances, military ensembles, spectacular flyovers, daily cultural programming, and an iconic Ferris wheel on the National Mall.
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A Capitol Fourth
Friday, July 3, 2026
(Note: this is a day earlier than normal)
8:00 pm
Broadcasting live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol
Kick off America’s historic Independence Day weekend on Friday, July 3rd as iconic television personality Alfonso Ribeiro hosts “A Capitol Fourth: 250th Weekend Celebration,” a special edition of the beloved annual holiday tradition, now in its 46th year, broadcasting live from the West Lawn of the United States Capitol Building with legendary music artists, stirring tributes and fireworks from George Washington’s iconic home Mount Vernon!
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America’s National Independence Day Parade
July 4th at 10:30 am
Washington, D.C.
The parade has been canceled due to extreme heat.
The National Independence Day Parade is held annually in Washington, DC. Invited bands and participants come together every year for this patriotic, flag-waving, red white and blue celebration of America’s birthday!
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Salute to America Celebration & Fireworks
July 4, 2026
Doors open at 1:00 pm
Fireworks Show: about 10:30 pm for about 40 minutes
Washington Monument Grounds, 2 15th St NW, Washington, D.C.
The nation’s premier Independence Day celebration and a powerful tribute to 250 years of American freedom, strength, and exceptionalism. Set against the iconic backdrop of the National Mall, Salute to America will bring together citizens from every corner of the country to honor and celebrate the United States. The day will feature the renowned Independence Day Parade, military demonstrations showcasing the courage and capability of America’s armed forces, tributes to service members and American heroes, special guest remarks, family-friendly festivities, and patriotic performances celebrating our shared heritage. The celebration will culminate in a record-setting fireworks display illuminating the monuments and memorials of the nation’s capital — a breathtaking symbol of the enduring promise of liberty. As America marks its 250th anniversary, Salute to America will stand as a defining celebration of the people, principles, and patriotic spirit that make the United States the greatest nation in the world.
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For an overview of preparations and resources for this year’s Fourth of July celebrations and America’s 250th anniversary events taking place across Washington, DC, click here. This includes activities, road closures, and safety tips.
For July 4th Metro service information, click here.
For US Capitol Police information for A Capitol Fourth, click here.
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