Spending the Fourth in DC was one of the most patriotic things I have ever done and really made me feel like a true American. But here in DC the festivities begin on the third. Every year in the Capital there is a concert on the West lawn of the Capital building featuring a variety of different artists. This year it was Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Scotty McCreery, the cast of Motown, and many more. In addition to the singers the concert features the National Symphony Orchestra. Although this concert is held on the Fourth, there is always a dress rehearsal n the evening of the third. I was told by all the locals to attend the concert on the third because there would be a lot less people. I am sure glad I listened because it wasnt crowded at all and was so much fun!
On the Fourth itself I attended the Fourth of July Parade on Constitution Ave. If this is something you want to attend you should plan on arriving about two hours early in order to get good seats! But honestly, if you have seen a parade before don't waste your time. This parade is two hours long and basically features High School marching bands from around the nation.
After the parade my room mates and I went to the National Gallery of Art. I can honestly say I am glad I went and the art is beautiful but I did get a little bored. Also, the place is massive! If you are an art buff and want to see every piece in the gallery plan on spending the entire day there, maybe even two days!
Finally we made our way to the National Mall to watch the fireworks (The National Mall isn't really a mall, it's the grassy area between the Capital Building and the Washington Monument - Just clarifying because I was very confused at first). If you are planning on watching the fireworks on the mall plan on being there by 7:30 at the latest. They do not actually begin until 9:15 but the area fills up fast! The fireworks were amazing! They are shot off from the reflecting pool at the Lincoln Memorial and frame the Washington Monument - which is quite a sight to see!
Friday was a little more relaxing. I took a night tour on a double decker, open topped bus all around D.C. This was a great experience! Every monument and Memorial is lit up beautifully and the guide gives you information of the history that surrounds Washington. I would definitely recommend that you do this!!! Tours begin at 7:30 from Union Station - This is not something you want to miss!
Finally on Saturday I spent the day at the real mall in Pentagon City. This mall is a straight shot on the yellow line metro and, if you like to shop, worth going to. It is a four story mall with over 150 stores, most of which are very nice/name brand stores. It will take the whole afternoon so if you need to kill some time this is a great way to do so!
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