The Fourth of July takes over the area this weekend with the 60th Annual Palisades Parade, fireworks on and off the National Mall and festive celebrations across the city. But World Cup season is still in full swing, too, with watch parties at Buddy’s and even a sunset cruise out of Alexandria Marina. If soccer isn’t your thing, there are also community events, art exhibits and creative gatherings to fill the long weekend. Just don’t forget the sunscreen — a heat dome is expected to push temperatures close to 100 degrees.
Thursday, July 2
Summer Fiesta at the Phillips Collection
Find a summer escape inside and out at the Phillips Collection, where the after-hours party includes live music from Taisha Estrada; salsa dance lessons; pop-up talks about works in the galleries; hands-on activities such as decorating maracas; spirit tastings; and other activities. 5 to 8:30 p.m. $20.
Make & Mend Patch Night at Anthem Row
It’s not hard to end up with a pile of clothes waiting to be fixed — a missing button here, a tear there or a hole you’ve been meaning to patch. Bring those pieces to Anthem Row and finally give them a second life. Organizers will teach visitors how to mend, patch or even turn worn clothing into patches as an eco-friendly way to save money and keep old clothes in rotation. Fabric, denim, thread and needles will be provided, and the upcycling stations will be set to music. Stations close at 8 p.m., but stick around afterward to hear Future Band and DJ Duchess or simply hang out. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Free.
‘The Playground’ at the National Building Museum
Remember that summer the National Building Museum turned its monumental Great Hall into the Chuck E. Cheese ball pit of your adult fever dreams, with nearly 1 million translucent balls clacking around? Or how, in 2018, you found the museum’s vast, cathedral-like space transformed into an immersive “summer house”? New York design firm Snarkitecture returns to Washington with “The Playground,” an extended pop-up that offers multiple environments for kids of all ages inspired by “parks and playgrounds with a delightful twist.” Look for late-night parties for adults (the first one is Thursday at 6:30 p.m.) with live music and cocktails, as well as STEAM-focused days for families. Through Aug. 3. Thursday, 6:30 to 9 p.m., varying times throughout the week. Free-$25, prices vary depending on day and event.
Immigrant Stories of Independence at Lincoln’s Cottage
Commemorate President Abraham Lincoln’s Act to Encourage Immigration, signed into law on the Fourth of July, and the anniversary of the day he moved to the cottage for the last time. Storytelling begins at 7 p.m., highlighting Lincoln’s reputation as a “famously adroit storyteller.” While stories are shared throughout the cottage, food from immigrant-owned food trucks will be available in Lincoln’s Drawing Room alongside stories from immigrants living across the DMV. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; storytelling begins at 7 p.m. Free, registration requested.
America: The Innovation at Union Station
The D.C. Walls mural festival turns Union Station into its gallery at this three-week event, showcasing more than two dozen artists examining the meaning of innovation. The pop-up gets underway with a special opening reception on the station’s mezzanine. 6 to 8 p.m., with the exhibition open through July 25. Free.
Spoken Word Open Mic Night at Sook
Spoken word holds an ancient tradition of stringing words together with rhythm, poetry, theater and music to share stories. At Sook, bring these traditions of oral epics back to life and keep tradition alive with a poem, a personal story or whatever words you’ve been wanting to share. Even if you’ve never gotten into poetry or have no idea how to do spoken word, organizers invite creatives to join them for a night of words. Sign up prior to the event in person via the Sook’s Instagram DM. 7 to 10 p.m. Free.
Friday, July 3
‘Confessions II’ Release Party at Trade
Since the mid-’90s, D.C. has celebrated the Material Girl at a themed dance party called Madonnarama. As Madonna releases “Confessions II,” DJs Ed Bailey — a founder of Madonnarama — and WessTheDJ are joined by JaxKnife Complex, Citrine and other performers for a night of non-stop Madonna, with songs from all her eras, and merch giveaways all night. 9 p.m. Free.
Scene Night at As You Are
According to As You Are, scene means “rawr XD” and “fishnets and feelings.” If that’s your energy, the queer-owned Capitol Hill bar has you covered. The venue even put together an outfit mood board featuring neon cheetah prints, mini skirts, fuzzy boots, side-swept band hair and lace-up Converse. The themed cocktail menu includes the “Stra-rawr-rita,” with tequila, strawberry puree and lime, “Babes Breeze” mixed with Malibu, pineapple and cranberry and “That’s Sex! on the Beach,” a vodka and peach Schnapps drink — there’s a lot of options while DJ BiteBack spins until 2 a.m. 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free.
Marvin Rooftop Reunion at Eighteenth Street Lounge
If you were lucky (or old) enough to experience day parties at Marvin, you remember what made it such an important D.C. destination: DJs spinning an eclectic mix of hip-hop, R&B and throwbacks; beautiful people; and the perfect vibes that made you forget you had to go to work the next day. Eighteenth Street Lounge is continuing Marvin’s mission at its reunion parties, with DJ Keenan Orr, a staple of Marvin’s Sunday parties, spinning on the roof, and a cookout on the lower level. 6 to 11 p.m. $11.50.
Civic Jam at Cherry Hill Farm
Falls Church’s Civic Jam takes the form of a community party at the historic Cherry Hill Farm in the city of Falls Church. There will be food, a beer garden, a mechanical bull, ax throwing and a bounce house before the main event: the Civic Cup, featuring relay and sack races and a watermelon roll. 6 to 10 p.m. Free.
Oasis Day Party at Barrel House
If you’re lucky enough to have the day before the holiday off, Barrel House is kicking off the weekend early. DJs Kaan, Killr Flowr and Beatwala will soundtrack an afternoon of cocktails and an extended happy hour on the patio and in the garden, beginning well before the usual 4 p.m. start. There’s no cover — just show up in your best day-party outfit. 1 to 5:30 p.m. Free.
Rare Essence at the 9:30 Club
And America’s 250th birthday isn’t the only anniversary worth celebrating: After 50 years on the scene, go-go legend Rare Essence is still crankin’, as are Experience Unlimited (which dates its founding even earlier) and front man Gregory “Sugar Bear” Elliott. Band members — and audience members — have come and gone over the decades, but go-go continues to be the soundtrack of D.C. 8 p.m. $50.64.
New England Fest at the Roost
Enjoy New England bites like lobster rolls, clam pie and apple cider doughnuts at the Capitol Hill East food hall, washed down with beers from across the region, including Allagash, Foam, Sacred Profane and Trillium. There’s even a Bloody Mary made with lobster butter-washed vodka. (Yes, you read that correctly.) 5 p.m. Free.
Soca Sunset Cruise at Alexandria Marina
The sunset cruise is back and is teaming up with La Vida Soca to bring the party off land. In honor of another World Cup weekend, boarding begins at 6 p.m. when the first soccer game starts before the Cherry Blossom Boat sets sail. Ladies are encouraged to dress up, and every ticket also includes entry to the after-party. While on the water, sounds from international DJs, including Crown Prince and DJ Majestic will curate the soundtrack. Meanwhile, passengers can enjoy what they truly came for and watch the double header game starting with Argentina vs. Cape Verde, and then Colombia vs. Ghana at 9:30 p.m., as the sun sets. Boarding begins at 6 p.m. $90.
Summer Social at Yerba
Yerba, a self-care and wellness boutique in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, sells everything from flower teas to CBD and THC treats, books and bouquets. This Friday, the shop is hosting a summer social with free samples of ice cream, popsicles, sorbet, cold-pressed juices and lemonade, plus a load of conversations centered on wellness. Popsicles also come with a complimentary discussion about life insurance and protecting your family from a licensed accidental life insurance agent. Samples are free, and if they’re really tasty, some are available for purchase. 1 to 5 p.m. Free.
Saturday, July 4
National Independence Day Parade
Step lively: Instead of taking a straight shot down Constitution Avenue between Seventh and 17th streets NW this year, the marching bands, floats, giant balloons, dance and flag teams, military groups and equestrian units will begin at Third Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, proceed down Third to Independence Avenue SW, and then turn west on Independence Avenue to finish at 12th Street SW. Viewers are welcome to bring chairs and stools and set up along the route. Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. Third Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW to 12th Street and Independence Avenue SW. 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free.
Pop of Color Art Exhibit at Space Between Gallery
Why not enjoy an art exhibit before heading out to see the fireworks? A temporary installment will be on display at the Space Between Gallery, a women-run art collective with art by Nashville-based Kaylan Lemon, Courtney Rapanick, and 10 other D.C.-based artists and vendors, with music from curated music playing through the night. The gallery specializes in the intersection between art and sound, and they’ll be doing just that in a hyperlocal art scene. 4 to 8 p.m. Free.
Elbridge Gerry: America 250 Commemoration at Congressional Cemetery
Elbridge Gerry is not the best known of the Founding Fathers, but the Massachusetts native signed the Declaration of Independence, attended the Constitutional Convention and was James Madison’s vice president. (He also lent his name to the political practice of gerrymandering.) Gerry is also both the only vice president and the only signer of the Declaration to be buried in D.C. A July Fourth ceremony at his tomb at Congressional Cemetery includes a patriotic tribute and wreath laying, remarks and the unveiling of an interpretive sign. A tour of graves of Revolutionary War soldiers follows, with visitors invited to place flags at veterans’ graves. 10 a.m. to noon. Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org. Free, RSVP requested.
‘What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?’ at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
In one of his most famous speeches, at an Independence Day celebration in 1852, abolitionist and author Frederick Douglass asked, “What, to the American slave, is your Fourth of July?” Poet and historian Nathan Richardson will deliver that speech to begin the July Fourth commemoration at Cedar Hill, Douglass’s Anacostia home. The event also features student winners of the Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest reciting Douglass’s words, a public reading of the Declaration of Independence and free tours of Cedar Hill. 10 a.m. Free.
Soccer on the big screen at the FIFA World Cup Fan Zone
Prefer to celebrate soccer on the Fourth? Head to the World Cup Fan Zone on the Mall between Third and Fourth streets for an outdoor viewing party. It opens at noon, with round-of-16 matches kicking off at 1 and 5 p.m. Note to casual fans: The U.S. team will not be playing. Noon to 8 p.m. freedom250.org. Free, registration recommended. (Note: The Fan Zone will be open through July 19.)
Capitol Hill Fourth of July Parade and Watermelon Festival
The U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps leads the 23rd annual Capitol Hill Fourth of July Parade down Barracks Row, followed by marching bands, local politicians, community and school groups, dancers, pets and floats from local businesses. New this year: a Barracks Row Watermelon Festival, with watermelon carving, a cannoli-eating contest and music from the Too Much Talent Band. The park around the Eastern Market Metro station features live jazz and family activities such as face painting. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Eighth Street and I Street SE. Free.
Hometown Celebration in Great Falls
The Fourth of July Hometown Celebration in Great Falls is the epitome of a small-town holiday party. The day begins at 8 a.m. with a 5K fun run and walk around the community. That’s followed at 8:30 by the Little Patriots Parade on the village green — think small children in costumes being pulled in decorated strollers, vying to win such titles as “Miss Betsy Ross,” “Young George Washington” or “Best Curly Hair.” The main parade gets underway at 10, with vintage fire trucks, antique cars, riders on horseback, dogs and floats decorated by local businesses and organizations. This year, there’s a special 250th anniversary car show, featuring some of the cars from the parade. A music festival on the village green begins at 12:30 p.m. with two live bands, games, inflatables and a hot dog eating contest. July 4 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free.
World Cup Cookout at Buddy’s
Watching the World Cup doesn’t have to mean squeezing into a packed sports bar. Buddy’s in Columbia Heights is taking the games outside with a Fourth of July cookout featuring burgers, ribs, Maryland blue crabs, beer buckets and holiday drink specials while Saturday’s matches play. Team USA fan or not, everyone’s invited. 2 to 7 p.m. Free.
60th Palisades Fourth of July Parade and picnic
If you need proof that D.C. can feel like a collection of small towns, let us introduce you to the Palisades Fourth of July Parade. Anyone can register to join the 60-year-old parade on MacArthur Boulevard in upper Northwest, so you’ll find families pulling decorated wagons, neighbors on bikes, vintage cars, costumed dogs, firefighters, elementary school groups and local politicians marching and waving. (Yes, you can still sign up on July 4.) Once the parade passes, head to Palisades Park for a free community celebration with hot dogs, watermelons, bouncy houses, face painting and glitter tattoos. The parade begins at 11 a.m. at MacArthur Boulevard and Whitehaven Parkway NW. The picnic begins at noon. Free.
‘We Sing America’ at Franklin Park
Why just watch Fourth of July performances when you can be part of them? Planet Word Museum and D.C. NPR affiliate WAMU have teamed up for a musical festival across from the 13th Street NW museum in Franklin Park. Join “Morning Edition” host Esther Ciammachilli — a former singing gondolier in Las Vegas — and a band for an afternoon of sing-alongs of folk songs, American classics and civil rights anthems. Bring a picnic and a blanket. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Free.
Fourth at the Wharf
The Wharf is going country for the Fourth, with seven country bands performing across four stages, including Melissa Quinn Fox, Shane Gamble and the Pawnshop Hearts, and a headlining performance by the Chris Ryan Band. Games and outdoor bars are available in different parts of the neighborhood, plus World Cup games are playing on an outdoor screen. A VIP ticket includes access to the Dockmaster Building overlooking the main stage, drink tickets and snacks. The concert wraps up just before the fireworks begin on the Mall. 5 to 9 p.m. Free; $60 VIP.
‘Sweet Land of Legacy’ at the Anacostia Community Museum
Join the Anacostia Community Museum for an old-fashioned ice cream social for families, who can discuss and share memories of their favorite Independence Day traditions before creating an ice cream-themed craft. Noon to 3 p.m. Free.
July 4 Shaw restaurant cookouts
Spirits are high in Shaw on the Fourth of July, with multiple restaurants near the intersection of Ninth and U streets getting festive. American Ice Company’s annual Crab Crack offers steamed blue crabs by the dozen or half-dozen with steamed shrimp and hushpuppies, beginning at noon. Admission is first-come, first-served.
Decorated cocktail destination Service Bar is turning to a backyard cookout theme, with burgers, hot dogs and BBQ chicken from 2 to 8 p.m., with food priced a la carte — and plenty of drinks available.
DC9 is opening its rooftop for hot dogs, cold beer and terrific burgers from 3 to 8 p.m. Admission is free, and a platter includes a burger or hot dogs, two sides and a slice of watermelon for $12, which, in this economy, sounds like a steal.
Sunday, July 5
Afrobeats and Wine Festival at Union Market
Wine and Afrobeats come together at Union Market this weekend with an all-day festival featuring DJs including DJ PSmoov and K Meta, plus live performances from Anguesomo and Ayo. Vintners will take guests through a curated list of Black-owned wine vendors and can grab Afrocentric dishes from local food trucks and stop by hookah vendors throughout the day. The dress code is “Afro Chique” and semiformal, so expect patterned dresses, skirts and bold looks. Ticket options range from general admission to wine tastings and large group tables. Noon to 9 p.m. $65-$800.
Her New Knife at the Fridge
On its latest single, “Pagan Poetry,” Her New Knife evokes images of dark currents, black lilies and blueprints of pleasure on an ambient love song. The song serves as a gently dipped toe in the murky waters that the shoegaze four-piece swims in. Formed in Tallahassee but now based in the friendlier confines — at least for underground music — of Philly, the band is propulsive, noisy and loud as hell. 6 p.m. $19.55.
Monday, July 6
Celebrate America 250 at Tudor Place
Tudor Place might not be as old as America, but the historic Georgetown estate has been around for more than two centuries. Explore its special exhibition, “Founding Fortunes: The Estate Sale of Martha Washington,” or have a picnic in the half-acre garden on Monday afternoon. This rare chance to visit on a Monday includes art activities and walk-though tours. 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free; $5 suggested donation.
Tuesday, July 7
Bricknasty at DC9
You’d be forgiven for not expecting an Irish trio with a masked front man and the name Bricknasty to be so smooth. On its latest release, the “Black’s Law” mixtape, the iconoclastic Dublin group dabbles in neo-soul, R&B classicism, and all types of electronic and hip-hop beats. Latin prayers duet with violins, and Irish folk songs mutate into dance tracks. The songs are shaped by the stress and strife in the band’s hometown, the Dublin neighborhood of Ballymun, that might make some reach for a knife, as on the deceptively soothing “Go Get That Blade.” 8 p.m. $25.75-$31.93.
National Harbor’s Kids Day on the Plaza
National Harbor rolls out the red carpet for kids every Tuesday morning this summer with its Kids Day on the Plaza programming. A different activity is featured each week, all with a beautiful Potomac River view as a backdrop. WHUT, Howard University’s television station, hosts special “Retro PBS Kids”-themed mornings throughout the summer, and while it’s worth reading the entire schedule, July 7 sounds particularly intriguing for book lovers. Inspired by classic children’s TV series “Reading Rainbow,” National Harbor is scheduling a community read-a-thon complete with free book giveaways and members of the Howard University women’s basketball team enlisted as special guest readers. Want to stick around afterward and go for a ride? The Capital Wheel is offering a special “Kids Day” deal on Tuesday, with a free child ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket. Through Aug. 25. 10:30 a.m. Free.
Wednesday, July 8
D.C. Punk Archive Summer Rooftop Shows
What’s more punk than the public library? Absolutely nothing. Bed Maker, featuring D.C. punk veteran Amanda MacKaye, joins Buko Buko and Pinkhouse to kick off the D.C. Library’s annual summer rooftop concert series at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. Enjoy the evening weather with loud music and friendly vibes at an all-ages show. 6 to 8:30 p.m. Free.