In our opinion, any time away from the office is time worthy of a proper celebration. And Independence Day is no different. Bring on the fireworks, BBQ, signatures cocktails, and classic Americana. We want it all. And by “all” we mean proper D.C. rooftops, perfect for those humid summer nights and fireworks that take you back to simpler times.

This year, don’t wait for a an invitation to someone else’s party. Make your own fun and check out these curated picks– from fireworks to roofs with breathtaking views– for a happy Independence Day:

Early Bird Celebrations

The Salt Line & Washington Nationals Post Game Fireworks
Website | 79 Potomac Avenue SE
The Salt Line is playing extra innings this year by kicking off events a day early. Check out the Washington Nationals post-game fireworks on July 3rd and return early the next day to celebrate a second game of America’s pastime.

Breakfast at Pennsylvania 6
Website | 1350 Eye Street NW | Saturday, June 30 & Sunday, July 1 | 11 AM-3 PM
It’s never too early to show off your patriotic spirit. Start with brunch the weekend before the fourth with bottomless red, white, and blue pancakes topped with traditional favorites. If the pancakes aren’t enough of an incentive, then the half-off bottomless mimosas will make this a stop you can’t miss this 4th of July.

Independence Day at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Website | 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Virginia | 8 AM-5 PM
To get out of the city and really celebrate America’s past, then head to the home of the nation’s first president George Washington at Mount Vernon.

The National Independence Day Parade
Website | 11:45 AM-2 PM
Make sure to plan your day around this event to catch a glimpse of this American tradition during your day’s celebrations.

Best of the BBQs

Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster BBQ
Website | 220 North Lee Street, Alexandria, 11: 00 AM-10:00 PM
Hang out in Old Town and stop by for sparkling wine and champagne along with all of your barbecue favorites.

DCity Smokehouse
Website | 2446 18​th​ St NW
A tradition as old as time. Celebrate the 4th with the patriotic combo of beer and BBQ at DCity Smokehouse.

Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe
Website | 2150 N. Culpeper Street, Arlington
Headed to a cookout? You can’t show up empty-handed. Find the perfect red, white, and blue treats for everyone with a sweet tooth at this

A Roof with a View

4th with a View at CityBar
Website | 400 E Street SW, 3-10 PM
There’s nothing quite like an All-American buffet for Independence Day.  Starting early, this day to turn to night party is a one-stop venue to celebrate the holiday.

4th of July Summer Soiree at The W Hotel
Website | 515 15th ST NW, 9 PM- July 4 2:00 AM
Enjoy catered barbecue, dancing, and signature cocktails while admiring the fireworks show from one of DC’s best rooftop bars.

July 4th Fireworks Party at Top of the Gate
Website | 2650 Virginia Avenue NW, 6:30-10:30 PM
The rooftop bar at the top of the legendary Watergate Hotel is an ideal location to watch the fireworks fall over DC’s most celebrated landmarks. The Washington Monument, Potomac River, Key and Arlington bridges, Kennedy Center, and DC skyline all can be seen from this spot.

July 4th Fireworks Cruise
Website | 3050 K St NW, 7-10:00 PM
Celebrate on the water with sights of the monuments, deserts, wine,  and of course fireworks.

July 4th Fireworks Soiree at Cambria Hotel Rooftop
Website | 899 O Street NW, 7-11 PM
Voted one of the best July 4th parties last year, this rooftop celebration has the drinks and DJs to set the scene for the perfect panoramic view.

A Night to Remember

Capitol Fourth Concert
Website | East Capitol Street NE & First Street SE, West Lawn
Hosted by some of the most recognizable names in the world, A Capitol Fourth will be the biggest display of fireworks you’ll see in celebration of July 4.

The Final Bang
Reserve a spot early for the main event. Popular locations include The National Mall, Mount Vernon Trail, on the Potomac River, and various rooftops throughout the city. The fireworks will go off a little after 9 PM (sunset). The perfect view to end this year’s 4th of July celebrations.