With the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence arriving this July, Independence Day celebrations around the country are going to be even more fantastic than usual. Many will flock to the nation’s capital for the holiday, but why not check out the fabulous offerings in Maryland, too? Two of the three celebrations listed here come before the Fourth , meaning that you can still make it to D.C. — or anywhere else — on the day itself. While only one is in Baltimore, the other two are well worth the drive!
- Sail250 Maryland & Airshow Baltimore; June 24-30
Come to the city the last week of June for a gathering of some incredible international vessels, military ships and aircraft. With a week’s worth of activities across Baltimore at the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, North Locust Point, Baltimore Peninsula, and Martin State Airport, there’s plenty of spots to choose from to see the festivities. The star of the show for many is the flight maneuvers. With planes overhead on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, there will be no shortage of viewing time for you and your loved ones. Best of all? All the events are free, with no ticket required!
- Washington County’s 250th Celebrations; July 2-9
Washington County isn’t too far from Baltimore, but its communities’ small-town charm is a nice switch from big-city July Fourth celebrations. Check out 250th events in Clear Spring, Boonsboro, Williamsport and Hagerstown, as well as a general Washington County celebration. The highlight of the festivities might be July 9 in downtown Hagerstown, when a time capsule from 1976 will be unearthed and unveiled! On top of that, you can help offer ideas and even donate items for a new time capsule to be opened in the future.
- Stars, Stripes, & Smiles: 250 Fun Day! at Evergreen Heritage Center; June 13
This is the only event that is one day only. Plus, it’s coming up soon, so make sure to mark your calendar! From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can hit the road to Mount Savage’s Evergreen Heritage Center and check out the Farmhouse Museum, guided hikes, good eats, vendors, live music and tons of fun geared towards kids. The event may not be free, but the cost is only $5 per vehicle! The Heritage Center is a great place to bring your family, not only because it is celebrating this year’s July Fourth, but because it’s rich in history that will help bring context to the last 249 Independence Days and those to come.
What are you doing for the Fourth this year? Do you have any local events that you frequent each year? How about tips to beat beach traffic on the Bay Bridge? Alright, that last one might be a reach, but either way — send us an email and let us know!