July 4th in Arlington County

This year's fireworks show will be different than previous July 4 celebrations with a later start time and increased security measures. If you are attending the Salute to America Celebration & Fireworks, plan ahead:

• Extensive road and pedestrian closures around the National Mall and TSA-like screening
• Bags are limited to one clear bag, no larger than a gallon-size freezer bag or a small clutch purse. Backpacks, bicycles, coolers, and sunscreen are not allowed. See the complete list of prohibited items.
• The fireworks show will begin later this year -- ~10:30 p.m. -- and will last approximately 40 minutes. 

Metro is your best option to travel downtown, as there will be parking restrictions and street closures beginning June 28. Fares on Metro will be FREE systemwide from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Metro Rail service will increase starting at 5 p.m. Additional details are availble on Metro's 4 service plans webpage. 

Heading downtown? Text 'DC250' to 888-777 to receive free event updates, including transit information, road closures, and weather updates.

If you're looking to catch the Salute to America Fireworks from Arlington County, the US Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima), Long Bridge Park, and Gateway Park are popular spots. The Arlington County Police Department will be at all three sites conducting road closures and providing safety and security at the venues.

Note: The Air Force Memorial is closed on July 4.

Traffic in Arlington County will be impacted and motorists should expect significant delays, particularly leading up to and after the fireworks display. The Arlington County Police Department is reminding drivers that stopping or standing in a lane of traffic to observe the fireworks is illegal and violators may be issued a citation. Additionally, parking on the shoulders of Route 110, Arlington Boulevard (Route 50) and George Washington Memorial Parkway in both directions is prohibited and will be strictly enforced. Unattended vehicles found in violation will be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense.

Neighborhood fireworks going off with a bit too much of a bang? Report a noise issue by calling 703-558-2222. Keep 9-1-1 lines open for emergencies!

The Arlington County Police Department, Virginia State Police, United States Park Police and the Virginia Department of Transportation will close multiple roadways on Saturday, July 4th, 2026, to facilitate the safe passage of large crowds for the Independence Day events and fireworks.  

TRAFFIC ALERT: Planned Road Closures for July 4, 2026 Celebration

Extensive street closures and parking restrictions are planned for the Fourth of July celebrations around the National Mall, including closures of both the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge and the Arlington Memorial Bridge.

 TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Salute to America and Independence Day Events 

With the Fourth of July comes outdoor fun — fireworks and grilling have become synonymous with the celebration of independence. However, with those activities comes inherent risks. Take the steps to ensure your Fourth of July weekend is as safe as it is festive with these helpful reminders and tips from the Arlington County Fire Department.

If you plan to use fireworks outside your home, follow these legal and safety tips:

• Keep a minimum clearance of 25 feet from people and buildings.
• Wet down the area before shooting fireworks.
• Follow the label directions carefully and use good sense.
• Buy fireworks only from established retail outlets displaying a valid permit issued by the Arlington County Office of the Fire Marshal.
• A responsible adult, whom is not under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, must supervise fireworks activities at all times.
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Use fireworks outdoors only, in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
• Light only one a time and then move away.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a garden hose nearby or a bucket of water to place used fireworks in. Let them soak to ensure extinguishment before placing in regular trash for pickup.
• Illegal Fireworks include:
  • Fireworks that explode, emit flames or sparks to a distance greater than 12 feet, have a burning fuse less than one and one half (1.5) inches long with a burning rate of less than 4 seconds which emit projectiles.
  • Fireworks that explode in any form, such as firecrackers, mortars and cherry bombs.
  • Fireworks that leave the ground or rise in the air (other than a fountain), such as bottle rockets, mortars or roman candles.

Grilling/Open Burning

In the interest of everyone having a safe and enjoyable outdoor grilling season, the Arlington County Fire Department has information on open flame cooking devices, highlighting the most important things you can do to prevent grill fires.

In 2026, the Nation commemorates its 250th anniversary. Throughout 2026, Arlington Public Library will mark this milestone with a community read, author talks, a summer festival, local history project and more.

Join Arlington Public Library at Libraryfest on July 18, a free, all-day community festival at Central Library to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Planning to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026? Check out the Top Things to do in Arlington During America's 250th, including iconic landmarks, historic sites, and major commemorative events.

The Arlington County Board designated the Arlington Historical Society (AHS) as the lead organizer of the county-wide effort to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of our country. Visit their event page to see upcoming celebrations, including a Bell Ringing Community Ceremony on July 4.