WASHINGTON — The region is ringing in the Fourth of July with a bang — lots of bangs, actually. Fireworks shows are being held across the area, everywhere from the Mall to local middle schools.
First off, while you might want to bring the glitz and sparkle of Independence Day to your home, make sure you know about fireworks laws in your area.
- In Prince George’s County, backyard fireworks are illegal. Breaking this law could result in a $1,000 fine and six months of jail time.
- In Montgomery County, backyard fireworks are also illegal, unless you’re running a preapproved public fireworks show.
- In D.C., personal fireworks are illegal but sparklers smaller than 20 inches long are allowed. See a full list of what’s allowed and what’s not here.
Now, here’s where and when to watch the pros do it. WTOP will keep updating this list as the day draws closer.
Public firework displays and Independence Day events: D.C.
- National Mall Fourth of July Celebration: Fireworks will take off from the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, starting around 9 p.m. and lasting almost 18 minutes.
Public firework displays and Independence Day events: Maryland
- Gaithersburg: Celebrations will take place at Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm and fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m.
- Annapolis: The state capital has a parade that starts at 6:30 p.m. and runs until 8 p.m. Fireworks will be launched from the Annapolis Harbor at around 9:15 p.m.
- Rockville: Independence Day events, hosted by the city’s mayor and council, kick off at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park in King Farm. Fireworks begin around 9:15 p.m.
- Bowie: The Bowie Baysox play at 6:35 p.m. at Prince George’s Stadium, at 4101 NE Crain Highway. There’s an Independence Day picnic at 5:30 p.m. and a fireworks display after the game. For more information and tickets, call (301) 805-6000.
- Germantown: There’s a concert at 7 p.m. and fireworks at 9:15 at the Maryland Soccerplex, at 14501 Schaeffer Road in Boyds. Call 301-670-4660 for more.
- Kensington: There’s a concert at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks at 9:15 at the Albert High School, 11135 Newport Road.
- Takoma Park: The town has a parade scheduled for 10 a.m., a concert at 7 and fireworks at 9:30 at the Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road.
Public firework displays and Independence Day events: Virginia
- Alexandria: Activities run from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park. Besides fireworks, expect food and music from the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra.
- Falls Church: Fireworks explode at 9:20 p.m., but get to George Mason High School at 7 p.m. for music.
- Fairfax: All-day events start at 10 a.m. with a two-hour parade in downtown Fairfax and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
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