(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

4th of July in D.C. is always packed and this year is no different. At 8 a.m., the National Archives (700 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.) begins its festivities with a free T-shirt giveaway to the first 1,000 guests, followed by a live musical performance by Brass Connection. Next, at 10 a.m., the Declaration of Independence Reading Ceremony takes place, and the morning concludes with the National Independence Day Parade at 11:45 a.m. For more details, visit archivesjuly4.org. 

The celebrations continue at Wharf D.C. (noon-4 p.m.; 735 Water St., S.W.) with its 4th of July Summer Party. Guests can enjoy a family friendly afternoon filled with games, face painting and music from Rocknoceros. Guests are also encouraged to stay after the event ends to watch the fireworks from the pier (expected to start around 9 p.m.). 

Beyond the pier, people can also watch the fireworks from a number of rooftop terraces, including W Washington D.C. Hotel (515 15 St., N.W.) and CityBar (400 E St., S.W.). 

The W Washington D.C. Hotel hosts its annual party “Boom With a View” from 6:30-10:30 p.m. Guests get to watch the fireworks from the hotel’s terrace overlooking the mall while enjoying signature cocktails, vibrant beats and food. Tickets are $275 and can be purchased at eventbrite.com. 

CityBar offers partiers yet another viewing opportunity, featuring an all-American buffet, passed bites, open bar and music. The event starts at 3 p.m. Tickets are $200 for adults and $100 for children (12-years-old and younger) and can be purchased at eventbrite.com. 

After the fireworks, D.C. Eagle (3701 Benning Rd., N.E.) hosts an Independence Day bar night from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Guests can enjoy Jell-O shots in red, white and blue and will get one shot free if they’re wearing at least one of the colors. Tickets are $10 at the door.