July 4th in Arlington County
Since 1776, the Fourth of July has been a day of commemoration and celebration in the United States. And this is especially true in Arlington County, where the proximity to the nation's capital makes the Independence Day celebration one of the country’s best. Here's some info to help keep your holiday fun, festive, and safe.
Arlington County Government offices and services will be operating on modified schedules for the Independence Day holiday on Thursday, July 4, 2024 — visit the Holiday Schedule page for more details.
Additionally, the Arlington County Police Department, Virginia State Police, United States Park Police and Virginia Department of Transportation will close multiple roadways on Thursday, July 4, 2024. These closures are meant to facilitate the safe passage of large crowds for Independence Day events and fireworks.
Arlington continues to see dangerously high temperatures as we approach the July 4th holiday. Consider following Ready Arlington on social media and signing up for Arlington Alert, a FREE program that sends emergency alerts from Arlington County Government.
Neighborhood fireworks going off with a bit too much of a bang? Report a noise issue by calling 703-558-2222. Please keep 9-1-1 lines open for emergencies!
View the National Fireworks
The nation's capital is an exciting place to be during the week of July 4, with many patriotic festivities taking place in honor of Independence Day, culminating with the annual Independence Day fireworks celebration on the National Mall, hosted by the National Park Service. The show gets started on Thursday, at 9:09 p.m., and will be launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
Looking for a spot to see the National Fireworks? Our friends at All In Arlington have put together the Top 5 Spots to Watch from Arlington.
An important note for 2024: Arlington National Cemetery, in collaboration with the Air Force District of Washington, will close public access to the Air Force Memorial on July 4. This is an active construction site involving multiple road closures, which poses a significant safety and security risk. In addition, the only way to access Arlington National Cemetery will be via the ramp from northbound Route 110 to Memorial Avenue.
Celebrate the 4th in Your Neighborhood
- Bellevue Forest Citizens' Association 4th of July Parade: The tradition continues! Parade begins promptly at 9:15 a.m., at the intersection of Roberts Lane and Oxford Street.
- Bluemont’s Bell: The Bluemont neighborhood will celebrate by ringing the bell in Constitution Gardens (the corner of N. George Mason Drive and Wilson Blvd.) at noon on July 4.
- Douglas Park Civic Association 4th of July Parade/Potluck: Starts at 10 a.m. with bicycle decorating for kids and ends with a reading of the Declaration of Independence! Details.
- Fairlington July 4th Parade: Every year, Fairlington residents show up by the hundreds to celebrate Independence Day and participate in the annual July 4th Parade, sponsored by the Fairlington Citizens Association and Fairlington Villages.
- Independence Day/National Bell Ringing/BBQ: This event is the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day with your friends and family. The BBQ starts at 2 p.m. on July 4, 2024.
- Lubber Run Summer Concert Series: The Lubber Run Summer Concert series features free performances from a variety of genres including big band, blues, soul and orchestral music as well as cabaret at the Lubber Run Amphitheater. The series runs through August 2, 2024; Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 11 a.m.
Celebrate Safely
With the Fourth of July comes outdoor fun — fireworks and grilling have become synonymous with the celebration of independence. However, with those activities comes inherent risks. Take the steps to ensure your Fourth of July weekend is as safe as it is festive with these helpful reminders and tips from the Arlington County Fire Department.
Fireworks
The Arlington County Fire Prevention Office wants everyone to enjoy the holiday this year by keeping it safe. Fireworks are dangerous and the lighting of fireworks should be left to the experts. Remember: fireworks with projectiles or sparks greater than 12 feet are prohibited by the Arlington County Fire Prevention Code.
If you plan to use fireworks outside your home, follow these legal and safety tips:
- Keep a minimum clearance of 25 feet from people and buildings.
- Wet down the area before shooting fireworks.
- Follow the label directions carefully and use good sense.
- Buy fireworks only from established retail outlets displaying a valid permit issued by the Arlington County Fire Department Fire Prevention Office.
- A responsible adult, whom is not under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, must supervise fireworks activities at all times.
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
- Use fireworks outdoors only, in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
- Light only one a time and then move away.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a garden hose nearby or a bucket of water to place used fireworks in. Let them soak to ensure extinguishment before placing in regular trash for pickup.
Grilling/Open Burning
In the interest of everyone having a safe and enjoyable outdoor grilling season, the Arlington County Fire Department has information on open flame cooking devices, highlighting the most important things you can do to prevent grill fires.
Updated: June 26, 2024