America 250 DMV celebrations are taking place across Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia as families mark America’s 250th birthday with parades, festivals, museums and special events. See how many events from our 250th Celebration Scavenger Hunt you can attend with your family and loved ones over the summer!
Key takeaways
- The bigger picture: Whether your family loves to party or prefers a quiet day in a museum, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the United States in the DMV this summer.
- The details: America’s 250th Anniversary events are spanning from early summer well into fall.
- The more you know: Updated information about the events can be found at DC250, VA250 and MD250.
WASHINGTON, DC
Spirit of ’76 Special Exhibition
Explore 250 years of American independence through this exhibit in the U.S. Capitol, tracing how Congress and Americans have commemorated the Declaration of Independence across generations. Original artifacts include one of the first printed copies of the Declaration showing the Founders’ signatures, an 1876 Declaration of the Rights of Women by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a Centennial time capsule opened at the Bicentennial in 1976 and more.
- Date: Open daily through July 31
- Location: E Capitol Street and 1st Street NE, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 8 and up
- Time requirement:
- Cost expectation: Free
- Tips: Plan your visit around a Capitol tour or nearby mall attractions to make the most of your trip.
American’s State Flowers at the Botanic Gardens
Walk through the beautiful and exciting Botanic Gardens to see and learn about state flowers from across the country. This exhibit will be open in the Garden’s Conservatory.
- Date: Now through Oct. 26
- Location: U.S. Botanic Gardens, 100 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 6-12
- Time requirement: 1-2 hours
- Cost expectation: Free to visit with no tickets required.
- Tips: Check the online map of the Conservatory to pinpoint where your favorite flower will be!
National Independence Day Parade
An always spectacular parade will take on new meaning on the 250th anniversary on July 4. Running from Constitution Avenue to 12th Street along 3rd Street and Independence Avenue, kids can see fife and drum corps, floats, equestrian teams and more.
- Date: 10:30 a.m. July 4
- Location: 3rd Street, NW; Independence Avenue; and 12th Street
- Best ages: 3 and up
- Time requirement: All day event
- Cost expectation: Free
- Tips: Be conscious of little ones temperature, hydration, bathroom and dietary needs during this long but exciting event.
Salute To America 250
An annual tradition will take on new meaning as fireworks shine behind the Washington monument on the 250th Independence Day on the National Mall. Celebrate 250 years of democracy with the whole family at the unifying fireworks display.
- Date: July 4
- Location: The National Mall, between 4th Street and 14th Street, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 4 and up
- Time requirements: Times to be announced
- Cost expectation: Fireworks are free to attend
- Tips: Arrive early and be aware the Mall can get very crowded.
Capitol Hill Fourth Of July Parade
A holiday staple in the heart of the nation, the Capitol Hill Fourth of July Parade will feature cultural performers, marching bands, community groups and more. The parade will begin on 8th Street and can be viewed anywhere along Barracks Row.
- Date: July 4
- Location: Capitol Hill, 8th St. SE, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 3 and up
- Time requirement: The Parade will begin at 10 a.m., the end time has not been finalized. There will be further celebrations on Barracks Row and Eastern Market after the parade.
- Cost expectation: The parade is free to attend.
- Tips: Arrive earlier to ensure you get a good view of the marchers.
The Great American State Fair
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A 16-day event will showcase the traditions of many states and territories through live music, carnival rides, and activities for all ages. Opening on the National Mall on June 25 with events honoring “The American Canon” and closing on July 10 with a focus on future innovation, the Great American State Fair allows the whole family to explore the history and culture of our country.
- Date: July 10
- Location: The National Mall, between 4th Street and 14th Street, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 3 and up
- Time requirement: Events run all day, so there is time to explore at your own pace.
- Cost expectation: Free tickets can be reserved online
- Tips: Be sure to bring water and hydrate as summer days on the mall can get very warm.
Smithsonian Family Day
Watch historical re-enactments, sing along to musical performances, and take part in hands-on activities at the Smithsonian’s Arts & Industry Building’s immersive event. Perfect for family bonding and education during the nation’s anniversary.
- Date: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. July 25
- Location: Smithsonian, 900 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 3 and up
- Time requirement: Event runs for six hours with no requirement to stay the whole time.
- Cost expectation: Free
- Tips: Use this event as an opportunity to meet families with children close in age to your own.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix
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Watch IndyCar’s zip around the National Mall in August. For sports or car loving kids, this exciting race will celebrate the 250th anniversary with a thrill.
- Date: Aug. 22-23
- Location: The National Mall, between 4th Street and 14th Street, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 8 and up
- Time requirement: IndyCar street races typically take 1.5-2 hours.
- Cost expectation: Free general admission tickets will be available on the Grand Prix website and will be awarded via a lottery.
- Tips: Pack headphones for younger kids who may not be used to the noise of roaring engines.
American Dream Experience
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As most of the country is looking 250 years in the past, the Milken Center is looking to the future in their interactive holodeck and world cloud exhibits that examine what education, health and business may be like in the future. Take your kids to this experience and get a glance at the world they will inherit.
- Location: The Milken Institute, 1503 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 5 and up
- Time requirement: The museum offers suggested 30-, 60- and 90-minute itineraries.
- Cost expectation: Free tickets can be reserved online, but some experiences like the holodeck come at an additional cost.
- Tips: Read up on the artists after attending to gain a new understanding of the pieces.
Dear America
Examine what it means to be American while taking in incredible works of art at this National Gallery. This exhibit offers a unique way to learn about history, humanity and art while honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.
- Location: National Gallery of Art, 6th Street and Constitution Avenue, Washington, DC
- Best Ages: 10+
- Time Requirement: 1-2 hours
- Cost Expectation: Free
- Tips: Discuss the art with your children to see what their biggest takeaways were.
Free and Independent
An exploration of the Declaration of Independence and how it has been protected, this exhibit by the National Archives encourages learners to examine what it means to advance freedom. Featuring over 40 original artifacts from the Revolutionary era, the exhibit is a celebration of the United States’ founding.
- Location: The National Archives, 701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 10 and up
- Time requirements: 1-2 hours
- Cost expectation: Free general admission tickets are available online, with $1 timed entry tickets available to help attendees avoid long lines.
- Tips: Go over museum etiquette with your children before entering the Archives.
Smithsonian Castle
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Previously closed for renovations, the historic Smithsonian Institution Building reopened as part of the “Our Shared Future: 250” campaign. “The Castle” is the first and oldest Smithsonian building. Kids can play in the colorful gardens or go embark on an outdoor historic scavenger hunt.
- Location: Smithsonian, 1000 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington, DC
- Best ages: Historic exhibitions best for children 11 and up, while outdoor explorations suitable for younger kids.
- Time requirement: Varies by family and exhibition choices
- Cost expectation: Free
- Tips: There is no parking facility near the castle, so consider taking public transportation to the National Mall.
Red, White & Spy
Discover how General George Washington used espionage to secure American independence through hands-on crafts at the International Spy Museum. Kids and adults can try writing in invisible ink or learn to pass secret notes at these interactive exhibits.
- Location: 700 L’Enfant Plaza NW, Washington, DC
- Best ages: 9 and older
- Time requirement: 2-3 hours
- Cost expectation: Activities are included with museum admission. Tickets for children 6 and under are free, $23.27 for children 7-12, and $34.93 for people 13 and older.
- Tips: Also check out the Top Secret Family Guide to the Spy Museum, which highlights 250th anniversary inspired exhibits in the museum.
Creating Healthier Communities
Looking to help make America better on its 250th birthday? Consider at one of Creating Healthier Communities many summer events to support treatments and programs for those with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
- Location: Differs based on program
- Best ages: 13 and up
- Time requirement: Time commitments vary by event, program, and/or affiliate organization.
- Cost expectation: No cost to volunteer
- Tips: Consider volunteering as a family to help establish good habits and values as well as set an example for your children.
National Archives “The American Story”
The National Archives Museum’s newest exhibit brings over two million historic records to life through AI-powered, personalized galleries. Scan a QR code at the start of your visit to choose your interests, then explore original documents, artifacts, images, and film tailored to you — highlights include the Declaration of Independence, the Louisiana Purchase, the Wright Brothers’ flying machine patent, and Apollo 11 footage. Kids can also head to the Discovery Center to play “Democracy Disco” and “Clause of Power” in the Archives Arcade.
- Location: 700 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, DC
- Best ages: All ages; the Discovery Center is especially great for kids 5-12.
- Time requirement: Allow 1.5-2 hours
- Cost expectation: Free
- Tips: Scan the QR code at the entrance to unlock the personalized experience.
MARYLAND
Miles For Maryland
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Get outdoors and get your steps in with the Maryland Park Service “Miles for Maryland” Trail Challenge. Park Service challenges locals to walk 250 miles on one of Maryland’s 80 State Park trails by the end of 2026 in honor of the country’s anniversary. This challenge could be an opportunity to bond with your family through exercise and outdoorsmanship.
- Location: National Parks around Maryland
- Best ages: 10 and up
- Time requirement: Participants have until the end of 2026 to submit proof of completion.
- Cost expectation: Free to participate
- Tips: Make sure to register your family as a team so everyone’s miles are counted. While it may be easier for adults to track mileage using a smart watch or phone app, Park Service offers tracking activity sheets for kids to participate.
Maryland Mosaic
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Do you have a fun bit of family history you would like to share? Or is your child a budding history buff? Consider contributing to the Maryland Mosaic, an art piece that will catalog the actions and events of United States’ history that first took place in Maryland. This at-home research project can be a fun and educational activity for the whole family to participate in.
- Location: Locations vary
- Best ages: 8 and up
- Time requirement: While coming up with an idea and research may take several days, submission should take approximately one hour.
- Cost expectation: Free to participate.
- Tips: Consider this activity an opportunity to learn more about Maryland with your family, rather than a competition.
Washington County 250th Anniversary
A combination of block party events, musical performances, and historical celebration, Washington County is turning up for the 250th anniversary of the county and our country. Make sure to stop by downtown Hagerstown to unveil a time capsule buried in 1976.
- Location: Washington County Agricultural Education Center, 7313 Sharpsburg Pike, Boonsboro, MD
- Best ages: 4 and up
- Time requirement: 3 hours
- Cost Expectation: Events are free to attend with some concessions costs.
- Tips: Be sure to prepare younger kids for loud fireworks.
Fourth of July Cruise
A beautiful tour of St. Michaels Island and view of the sunset culminating in an incredible fireworks show which reflects across the water. Toast complimentary champagne with your small group of sailors on a historic vessel.
- Location: 101 Harbor Road, St. Michaels
- Best Ages: 11 and up
- Time Requirement: 2 hours
- Cost Expectation: $175-$265
- Tips: Even if you’re on a tour with strangers, take time to get to know them so you can enjoy the experience together.
VIRGINIA
Mount Vernon
Visit the home of George Washington and learn about his life in a new interactive exhibit at Mount Vernon. Through 4D technology, kids can experience Washington’s life and role in the Revolution first hand.
- Location: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon
- Best ages: 7 and up
- Time requirements: Visitors can take in the exhibits at their own pace, though 4D shows take 22 minutes.
- Cost expectation: Admission is free for children 0-5, $16 for those 6-11 and $30 for people 12 and older.
- Tips: Take time to look at original founding documents and Washington’s belongings in addition to the many virtual exhibits.
Stars and Stripes Spectacular
Look out at the beautiful water of Constant’s Wharf while enjoying an incredible fireworks display with your family and dance to music by The Fuzz Band.
- Location: Constant’s Wharf Park and Marina, 110 E Constance Road, Suffolk
- Best Ages: 4 and up
- Cost expectation: Free
- Time Requirements: 3.5 hours
- Tips: Take a look at some privately owned boats to see how owners decorated for the holiday.
The Great American Birthday Quilt
One of Colonial Williamsburg’s many creative ways of honoring history, the one-of-a-kind Great American Birthday Quilt is on display in Merchants Square to celebrate the shared history of our nation.
- Location: 101 Visitor Center Drive, Williamsburg
- Best ages: 3 and up
- Time requirements: A visit to the quilt will likely take under 20 minutes, but families may want to spend the whole day exploring Williamsburg.
- Cost expectation: Tickets to Colonial Williamsburg cost $10 for children 6-12 and $37.50 for people 13 and older.
- Tips: Check out the Colonial Williamsburg website to see what events you may want to attend after seeing the quilt.
Liberty Celebration
This event is full of interpretive programs, artillery demonstrations, and educational activities that allow visitors to learn about our nation’s founders.
- Location: 200 Water St., Yorktown
- Best Ages: 6 and up
- Time Requirements: 3-4 hours
- Cost expectation: $20 for adults, $10 for youth
- Tips: Historical re-enactors are very knowledgeable on their subjects, so make conversation to learn fun facts.
VA250 Mobile Museum
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Visit the interactive museum on wheels when it passes through your neighborhood to immerse yourself and your family in the story of Virginians who took part in the revolution. An event schedule is available on the museum’s website.
- Location: The museum is mobile, locations vary
- Best ages: 6 and up
- Time requirements: 1-2 hours
- Cost expectation: The museum is free to attend, but it often travels to events which may have an admission cost.
- Tips: Talk to your kids about their favorite part of the museum to help them connect more with the history.
Star-Spangled Cookout
A traditional American cookout featuring music, puppet shows, crafts, and games with prizes. Attendees will stroll into historic Yorktown as a community to celebrate the nation’s birthday with fireworks.
- Location: 200 Water St., Yorktown
- Best Ages: 6 and up
- Time requirements: 1-2 hours
- Cost Expectation: $45 for adults, $25 for youth
- Tips: Use this event as an opportunity to meet your neighbors over good food.
Families searching for America 250 events DMV activities will find options for all ages.
