Update: When to Watch Fireworks in Rockville

Update (June 18, 9:30 a.m.)

The city of Rockville is moving its annual fireworks display from Montgomery College to Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park in King Farm.

There will still be live music performed by the Fugitive Brass Quintet, The Nighthawks and the Rockville Concert Band prior to the fireworks display beginning at 7 p.m. The Mayor and City Council will give a brief address at 8:45 p.m., to be followed by the national anthem and eventually the fireworks display.

The event will be held from 7-10 p.m. on July 4 at the Park, 1800 Piccard Drive, in King Farm. (Rain date: Sunday, July 5.) Attendees are welcome to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and food and beverage.

The schedule for the evening is:

• 7 p.m.— Music begins on two stages with The Nighthawks, Fugitive Brass Band and Rockville Concert Band performing.
• 8:45 p.m.— Welcome from the Mayor and Council and the national anthem, followed by more live music.
• 9:15 p.m.— A 20-minute-long fireworks display begins.

This is the first year Rockville’s July Fourth celebration will be held at the 26-acre Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park in King Farm. The new location includes free, easy access and ample parking (with convenient exits) within a short walk of the fireworks viewing areas (see map).

Parking will be available in lots bordered by Shady Grove Road, Gaither Road, Choke Cherry Road and Piccard Drive, near the park. Several road closures are planned, and will encourage visitors to exit onto main roads such as Route 355 and Shady Grove Road. Rockville police will guide traffic to and from the designated lots before and after the event.