Fourth of July Tips for Celebrating in Washington, DC

Celebrating Independence Day in the nation's capital is an experience of a lifetime. Each year, as many as 700,000 people congregate around the National Mall to be a part of "America's biggest birthday party."

If you are planning to join the party, the following information will help you plan your day and get the most out of the dazzling Fourth of July celebrations in beautiful Washington, DC.

Go to Page 2 forTips About Getting to the National Mall

Three Most Important Things You Need to Know:

• If at all possible, use public transportation and avoid driving into the District. The Smithsonian Metro Station will be closed all day. See page 2 for alternate metro stations.



• Entrance to the National Mall and Memorial Parks will be through security check points. Individuals and items carried by them are subject to inspection.



• Temperatures in Washington, DC can exceed 90 degrees. Take precautions to avoid over exposure to the sun.

Opening Hours:

• The National Mall - 10 a.m.



• The U.S. Capitol Grounds (for the A Capitol Fourth concert) - 5 p.m.

Security Check Points:

Entrance to the National Mall and the U.S. Capitol grounds will be only allowed via security check points. All coolers, backpacks, packages and individuals will be subject to inspection. Check points will be located along Constitution Avenue, Independence Avenue, Pennsylvania Avenue, Madison Drive, East Basin Drive and other key entry areas.

Safety Precautions:

Summer temperatures in Washington, DC often reach 90 degrees (Fahrenheit) or higher. Sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can result from excessive heat exposure. Protect yourself against the heat and stay safe throughout the day by following these recommendations:

What to Bring:

• Bring bottled water (plastic bottles) and drink plenty of water throughout the day.



• Bring and use sunscreen and sun block.



• Wear a sun hat and sunglasses.



• Bring food and be sure to have enough to eat throughout the day.



• If you take medication, be sure to bring enough to last throughout the day.



• If you are planning to watch the fireworks near the launch site, consider bringing protective eyewear and ear plugs.



• Pack some non-aerosol insect repellent in case it is a buggy evening.



• Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk to most locations.

Beat the Heat:

• Take frequent breaks in the shade or inside buildings with air conditioning.



• Avoid overexertion.



• Loosen tight clothing.

Prohibited Items and Activities:

• Alcoholic beverages



• Fireworks



• Personal grills barbeques and other open flames



• Firearms and other weapons



• Feeding squirrels, birds, or other animals



• Picking flowers or plants



• Climbing on trees



• Glass bottles



• Erecting canopies or tents



• Active recreational activities, such as badminton, Frisbee, volleyball, etc.



• Fenced safety zones around the launch site



• Wading in the Reflecting Pool

First Aid Medical Tents:

First aid tents, located throughout the National Mall area, will be identified by a green cross flag. Mobile medical teams will be roving throughout the crowds to offer assistance. Medical tent locations are:

• Near the entrance to the Korean War Veterans Memorial



• On the Washington Monument Grounds along 17th Street (west)



• On the Washington Monument Grounds along Constitution Avenue(north)



• On the Washington Monument Grounds near the Monument Lodge on 15th Street (east)



• On the Washington Monument Grounds near the Survey Lodge Ranger station (south)



• Within the Folklife festival just outside the mall entrance to the metro



• On the North East side of the Grant Statue at the US Capital

Food Concessions:

Food may be purchased at concession stands located throughout the National Mall at the following locations. Expect long lines and lengthy waits. Concessions locations include:

• Lincoln Memorial



• Constitution Gardens



• Thomas Jefferson Memorial



• Washington Monument



• Smithsonian Folklife Festival - Folklife Festival Food Concessions

Water Stations:

Water stations will be located throughout the National Mall, however, it is recommend that you bring water to drink during the day.

Restrooms:

Portable restroom facilities will be located throughout the National Mall. Restrooms with running water are at:

• Lincoln Memorial



• Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial



• Thomas Jefferson Memorial



• Constitution Gardens



• Souvenir shop near Washington Monument



• Between Independence Avenue and the Reflecting Pool



• Museums around the Mall

Lost and Found

The U.S. Park Police will maintain a lost and found trailer near the Ranger Station, located south of the Washington Monument on Independence Avenue. After July 4, call the Park Police lost and found number at 202-426-6849.

To report a lost person, contact a uniformed Park Police officer or National Park Service Ranger to. Lost persons will be taken to the U.S. Park Police lost and found trailer.

Recycling Bins

Recycling bins will be placed along the National Mall. Use them to help keep the park clean.

Go to Page 2 forTips About Getting to the National Mall