Tips for Viewing the National Mall 4th of July Fireworks

PHOTO: Screen shot from National Park Service video

Planning on heading to the National Mall or nearby to see the fireworks on Saturday? Here are some tips to help you make the most of your day:

WHERE:

Fireworks will be launched Saturday from the Reflecting Pool area, and will be visible from many locations in D.C. and Virginia.

WHEN:

Fireworks begin at 9:09 p.m. EDST. Duration is 17 1/2 minutes. See Things to Do for other events going on throughout the day.

VIEWING FROM THE NATIONAL MALL:

• Plan to arrive early, and to protect yourself from heat-related illness. See Directions and Plan Your Visit.
• Viewing areas on the National Mall near the Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool will be accessible only through secure access points.
• Consider wearing hearing protection. These fireworks are BIG and LOUD.
• Consider wearing eye protection to protect yourself from falling debris (ash).
• Consider not bringing pets (some get very scared of the loud booms).
• Immediately following the fireworks, areas along Independence Avenue between the Lincoln Memorial and World War II Memorial will be closed for safety related to the fireworks launch site. The road will re-open after cleanup crews have completed their inspection and removed any hazardous materials.

OTHER VIEWING AREAS:

U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, The White House Ellipse, West Potomac Park, East Potomac Park, Anacostia Park, U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Virginia), George Washington Memorial Parkway (Virginia).

The United States Park Police will again be utilizing the Nixle system to provide visitors to the Independence Day celebration critical information throughout the day via text message. There is no fee for the service however message and data rates may apply. Text July4DC from your cell phone or mobile device to 888777 to receive these updates. For additional ways to join Nixle visit https://local.nixle.com/united-states-park-police/

The Independence Day Celebration is hosted by National Mall and Memorial Parks. If you would like to find out more information about the park or its various sites please click the link.

Independence Day is a very busy and fun filled day on the National Mall. To help you best plan for the crowds and all the activities that you will want to see, check out the sections below.

• Directions - Find out where to view the fireworks and how to navigate your way to a suitable viewing area.
• Closures - Find out what sites and roads will be closed for the celebration.
• Things to Do - The fireworks are only part of the fun! Find out what else is going on for Independence Day!
• Things to Know Before you Come - Health, Safety, and Preparation for visiting the National Mall and Memorial Parks on Independence Day.