America 250 Semi-Quincentennial/Freedom 250: Washington, D.C. Visitor Information
On July 4th, 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Washington D.C. will host major public events, museum exhibitions, Smithsonian programming, and traditional Fourth of July activities.
Major Public Events
- Smithsonian Programming: Events throughout the summer at various locations
- National Archives: Free and Independent: A Celebration of the Declaration: April 25 – July 5, 2027: National Archives Museum
- Rededicate 250: A National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise & Thanksgiving: May 17, National Mall
- Memorial Day National Observance: May 25, Memorial Amphitheater Arlington, VA
- National Memorial Day Parade: May 25, Constitution Avenue from 7th Street to 17th Street, NW
- Great American State Fair: June 25 – July 10, National Mall
- UFC Freedom 250: June 14, The White House
- National STEM Festival: June 27, The Square, 1850 K Street Washington, D.C.
- Giant National BBQ Battle: June 27 – 28, Pennsylvania Ave
- IndyCar Washington D.C. Street Race: August 21 – 24, National Mall
July 4th - Specific Events
- National Independence Day Parade: Constitution Avenue NW, 7th – 17th Street, 11:45am - 2:00pm
- Operation Independence! Family Scavenger Hunt: Southeast grounds of the Washington Monument, 2:00pm - 7:00pm
- Independence Day Junior Ranger: Washington Monument, 2:00pm - 7:00pm,
- Fourth of July Family Fun at the Jefferson Memorial: Thomas Jefferson Memorial, 2:00pm - 7:00pm
- Ranger Talk - Jefferson & Adams: Founding Friends, Fierce Rivals: Thomas Jefferson Memorial, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, and 6:00pm
- Capitol Fourth Concert: West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, 8:00pm - 9:30pm
- 4th Fireworks: National Mall, 9:09pm - 9:27pm