The Fourth of July, commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, remains one of America’s most cherished national holidays. What began as an annual observation after the War of 1812, often coinciding with significant national events like the groundbreaking of the Erie Canal, became a federal holiday on June 28, 1870, solidifying its place as a pivotal non-religious celebration for many Americans (USA Today).
This year, a record 72.2 million Americans are anticipated to travel between Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, July 6, marking a 2.4% increase from last year, according to AAA. While some states may experience rain and thunderstorms, AccuWeather forecasters predict clear skies for fireworks viewing across approximately two-thirds of the country (USA Today).
Nationwide Broadcasts: Don’t Miss the Spectacle
For those celebrating from home, multiple networks will offer live coverage of the nation’s most dazzling fireworks displays:
- CNN’s “The Fourth in America”: Airing from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. ET, this special will feature performances by artists such as Noah Kahan, Lainey Wilson, Sting, Nelly, Ice Cube, and more. Hosted by Dana Bash, Boris Sanchez, Victor Blackwell, and Sara Sidner, it will showcase fireworks from cities including Boston, Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. The broadcast will be available on CNN, CNN International, CNN.com, CNN connected TV and mobile apps, and Max (USA Today).
- NBC’s “Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks”: The 49th annual display, hosted by Ariana DeBose, will air live on NBC and Peacock from 8-10 p.m. ET. Performers include the Jonas Brothers, Eric Church, Lenny Kravitz, and Trisha Yearwood. Telemundo will simulcast from 9-10 p.m. ET, with an NBC encore at 10 p.m. (USA Today).
- Fox News Media’s “Proud American” Coverage: Fox will offer patriotic programming throughout the day, culminating in “The Big Independence Day Special” live from FOX Square in New York City from 8-11 p.m. ET. This special will include live fireworks from Washington, D.C., and a performance by the Dugger Band (USA Today).
- NewsNation: Providing special live coverage throughout July 4, NewsNation will present a special edition of NewsNation Prime from 6-10 p.m. ET, with correspondents reporting from New York and the White House (USA Today).
- PBS’s “A Capitol Fourth”: Celebrating its 45th year, this special will broadcast live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol from 8-9:30 p.m. ET. Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro, it will feature all-star musical performances and D.C. skyline fireworks. It can also be streamed on the PBS website, YouTube, and American Forces Network (USA Today, National Park Service).
- CBS and ABC: CBS has not yet announced its plans for Fourth of July coverage, while ABC will air repeats of “Celebrity Jeopardy” and “20/20” (USA Today).
Celebrating in the Nation’s Capital: Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., offers a vibrant array of activities for Independence Day. The highlight is the annual fireworks display on the National Mall, scheduled from 9:09 p.m. to 9:27 p.m., launched from both sides of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool (National Park Service).
Daytime festivities include the National Independence Day Parade on Constitution Avenue NW from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring marching bands, floats, and military units. Families can participate in “Operation Independence! Family Scavenger Hunt” and “Independence Day Junior Ranger” activities near the Washington Monument from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial will host “Fourth of July Family Fun” with trivia and story time, alongside ranger talks on “Jefferson & Adams: Founding Friends, Fierce Rivals” at 3 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. (National Park Service).
Prime viewing spots for the D.C. fireworks include the National Mall itself, areas across the Potomac River like the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and Netherlands Carillon, and various rooftop bars such as VUE Rooftop and Top of the Gate. For a unique experience, consider a fireworks cruise along the Potomac River or dining at restaurants with spectacular views like Sequoia or Nick’s Riverside Grill on the Georgetown waterfront. Other notable spots include the U.S. Supreme Court Plaza, Hains Point, Washington National Cathedral, Cardozo High School, Lady Bird Johnson Park, The Wharf, and the U.S. Air Force Memorial (Washington.org).
Beyond the fireworks, D.C. offers a host of activities:
- Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon for their annual Independence Day celebration (Washington.org).
- Explore D.C.’s culinary scene with outdoor dining, brunch specials, and themed treats (Washington.org).
- Catch the Washington Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park, playing the Boston Red Sox at 11:05 a.m. (Washington.org).
- Immerse yourself in history at the National Portrait Gallery’s America’s Presidents exhibit or the Smithsonian National Museum of American History (Washington.org).
- Enjoy family time at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo or join the celebration on the steps of the National Archives (Washington.org).
Other Celebrations: Kings Dominion
For those in Virginia, Kings Dominion will host “Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S®” on July 4 and 5, featuring nightly fireworks at 10 p.m. The best views can be found in Candy Apple Grove by the Drop Tower, International Street by the Eiffel Tower, or in Jungle X-Pedition by the Backlot Stunt Coaster (Kings Dominion).
Whether you’re traveling to a major city, enjoying local festivities, or watching from the comfort of your home, Independence Day 2025 promises a spectacular celebration of American history and spirit.
