Music Events on the Fourth

With family events going on around the city and pricey soirees to view fireworks, you’re probably wondering what to do on the Fourth of July. Worry not -- we know you’re secretly dying to fist-pump and bang out this Independence Day. And really, what’s a celebration without music to dance along to? Vuvuzelas are totally optional, though.

Some musical suggestions:

  • A Capitol Fourth Concert: You’d think several artists rocking out on the same stage means raising funds for a charity benefit. But in D.C., it’s the concert to head to on the Fourth of July. Party U.S.A.-style on the Capitol lawn, but a warning: A free concert brings out a lot of people, as in hordes of them. Get. There. Early.  8 p.m.; free.
     
  • Uncle Sam Jam Fest: In the spirit of the holiday, Uncle Sam wants you.  No, no, it’s not a call to duty. This time, it’s to scissor-kick and bang (or tumultuously jolt) your head for an all-afternoon music party. DJs and several bands will be there, so jam out to your pick of tunes. Plus, with more than 20 bars (yes, we said 20!) on site and Famous Dave’s barbecue galore, this Southwest Waterfront celebration will blow all others out of the water. Yeah, that was a terrible pun, but we’re totally serious. 3 p.m.; $15.
     
  • Washington Monument: The U.S. Army Band will keep it real with good ol' traditional tunes. It may be the epitome of spending the holiday on the Moument grounds, but having a knot-in-throat for songs like "Star Spangled Banner" never hurt anyone, right? 6 p.m.; free.

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