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
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

BBQ at City Tap Dupont
Website | 1250 Connecticut Ave NW | Wednesday, July 4 | 1-5 PM
City Tap Dupont Backyard BBQ at its finest. An all-you-can-eat spread that you won’t want to miss.

BBQ at City Tap Penn Quarter
Website | 901 9​th​ St NW | Wednesday, July 4 | 12-5 PM
Vote for the crown favorite at the battle for best brewery. That’s not the only competition.  The person with the most patriotic outfit will win a $100 City Tap gift card.

Annual 4th of July Pig Roast at Jackson 20
Website | 480 King Street, Alexandria, 4-7:30 PM
Hang out in Old Town and stop by for a traditional roast pig along with all of your barbecue favorites.

Roofers Union
Website | 2446 18​th​ St NW
A tradition as old as time. Celebrate the 4th with the patriotic combo of beer and hot dogs at this Adams Morgan bar.

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

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 Rooftop Bash at RedRocks H Street
Website | 1348 H Street NW, 4-10 PM
Check out the newly renovated, covered Rooftop with great views of the city.  Two floors and extended happy hour and drink menus help set the scene for a festive day and night.

July 4th Independence Day Celebration at Beacon Hotel
Website | 1615 Rhode Island Avenue NW, 5-10 PM
Celebrate the 4th with a signature cocktail prepared at the Beacon Bar and Grill’s Sky Bar that boasts spectacular rooftop views, which are perfect for watching the nighttime fireworks.

4th of July Summer Soiree at Penthouse Rooftop at La Vie
Website | 88 District Square SW, 12th Floor, 5 PM-12 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 at The Shay
Website | 1924 8th Street NW, 7-9:30 PM
Celebrate in style with a glass of champagne and a cupcake before watching the firework light up the DC skyline.

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 a the drinks and djs to set the scene for a perfect panoramic view.

A Night to Remember

Capitol Fourth Concert
Website | East Capitol Street NE & First Street SE, West Lawn
You got it dude. Uncle Jesse is hosting the Capitol Fourth Concert this year. If John Stamos isn’t enough to get you excited about this event then the multiple award-winning artist should.  This concert has a performer for everyone such as Jimmy Buffett, The Beach Boys, Pentatonix, Andy Grammer, The Temptations, Luke Combs, and more.

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.