2009 Independence Day parade in Washington DC

Flickr by techbirmingham: Underdog protects DC

The Independence Day parade takes place every year on the 4th of July in Washington DC.  The parade starts at Constitution Ave and 7th street at the corner of the National Archives and the National Gallery of Art.  It continues along Constitution Ave, past the White House, and ends at 17th Street.  The parade starts at 11:45am and ends whenever the last band, float, or group has finished the parade route.  There are also giant balloons, drum corps, and military units that participate every year.  See the official parade website for a history of the parade and a wonderful picture gallery. 

The event draws hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, so be sure to get there well ahead of start time to get a good view.  Some places have bleachers but most of the route is standing room only with some people sitting on the ground closest to the street.  The nearest metro stops to the parade route are National Archives and Federal Triangle.  Wear red, white, and blue to show your support of our country.

If you want to stick around after the parade, there is a concert on the lawn of the Capitol Building that you can attend.  There is also a Folklife Festival on the National Mall all day as well as a fireworks display in the evening after it gets dark.  Read my article about the fourth of July fireworks display for information on where to find the best viewing spots.