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Washington DC fireworks 2025: Start time, map, how to watch

Washington DC fireworks 2025: Start time, map, how to watch

USA Today3 days ago
Independence Day is nearly here, and Americans around the country are making plans to celebrate the United States' 249th birthday.
Booming fireworks, patriotic parades and outdoor barbecues have become annual traditions, and many employees enjoy the day off from work for the federal holiday.
The Fourth of July marks the day the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the 13 North American colonies officially separated from Great Britain.
In the nation's capital, Washington D.C., the celebrations on America's birthday are set to be huge. Here's what you need to know about Independence Day celebrations.
What time do the Fireworks on the National Mall start?
According to the National Park Service, fireworks on the National Mall are set to begin at 9 p.m. local time on July 4.
National Mall fireworks: See map
The park service provided a map of the National Mall that shows the various access points to watch the fireworks, as well as restrooms and food service, among others.
According to the National Park Service, tight security will be present with five specific access points available for visitors.
How to watch fireworks in Washington DC
Apart from attending at the National Mall, various spots in and around Washington D.C. serve as good viewing places for the fireworks show.
According to local news station NBC 4, Hains Point in East Potomac Park, the Washington National Cathedral and Cardozo High School serve as good spots along the Potomac River with good views of the show.
On the other side of the river, in Virginia, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, Netherlands Carillon, the Mount Vernon Trail, Lady Bird Johnson Park, U.S. Air Force Memorial and Military Women's Memorial are good places to view.
Outside of the capital, the Trust for the National Mall broadcasts a live view of the National Mall where people can tune in to watch the fireworks from home.
Contributing: Bailey Allen, USA TODAY NETWORK - New England
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
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I visited Dublin for the first time. My trip to the Irish capital was filled with surprises.
I visited Dublin for the first time. My trip to the Irish capital was filled with surprises.

Business Insider

timean hour ago

  • Business Insider

I visited Dublin for the first time. My trip to the Irish capital was filled with surprises.

Several things surprised me about visiting Dublin for the first time. The Irish city was cleaner, kinder, and more vegetarian-friendly than I imagined it would be. I was surprised how lax local tipping culture differed from what I was used to in the US. I've felt a connection with Dublin just about my entire life — and it's not because of ancestral history. My last name (Dubin) is just one letter away, and most of my mail comes misspelled in the name of the city instead. True story. Despite that similarity, and the fact that I've flown all around the world in my role as a travel writer, I'd never actually been to the Irish capital city until this year. When I finally got the chance to visit, I was impressed and felt inspired to visit again. Here's what I was surprised to discover during my first trip to Dublin. Locals I encountered seemed incredibly warm — but not in a performative way. I've heard many people rave about Irish hospitality, and Dublin didn't disappoint on that front. However, what really stood out to me was how genuine the friendliness from locals felt. It wasn't the kind of overly rehearsed, customer-service-polished vibe you sometimes find in touristy cities. People I encountered felt kind, helpful, and funny in a natural, unforced way. Our driver cracked jokes and gave us tons of travel tips that had rich local flavor, but didn't feel like a shtick. The whole city gave off a low-key, welcoming energy that stayed with me long after I left. More restaurants had vegetarian options than I expected. As a vegetarian, I came in with pretty low expectations for the variety of foods I'd get to eat when it came to dining out in Dublin. Local cuisine tends to rely heavily on meat, from Irish breakfasts to pies and stews. Many menus I browsed had lots of meat dishes and it initially looked like plant-based options would be few and far between. However, once I asked restaurant staff in person, I was surprised by how accommodating most places were. Some servers brought out full vegetarian menus that weren't printed and only available to customers who requested them. Others happily offered to have something special prepared from the kitchen or make vegetarian-friendly menu swaps. Local tipping culture felt more low-key than what I was used to back home. In the US, tipping feels mandatory. In Dublin, it just didn't seem like the norm. Like many Americans, I'm conditioned to tip generously (sometimes even going way above what's suggested) in restaurants or service settings. Aside from tossing down a few extra euros, tipping didn't seem to be expected at casual cafés or bars. Even at sit-down restaurants, tipping our server 10% seemed ample, whereas 20% feels like the typical minimum back at home in California. The more lax tipping culture definitely took some getting used to, but once I adjusted, it felt refreshingly pressure free. I was surprised by how clean the city felt. Dublin's streets were some of the cleanest I've seen in a major European city. This was an especially impressive feat, given that I visited the city during St. Patrick's Day. Even though it had hosted a massive parade and beers and crowds spilled out of every pub the cleanup was surprisingly swift and civilized. I was expecting a bit more grit — especially in high-traffic areas around the city center or Temple Bar — but even those looked remarkably tidy. Sidewalks were free of litter, public trash bins weren't overflowing, and I never once encountered the kind of mess that can be common outside of crowded, late-night spots. The city feels cozy and cosmopolitan at the same time. Dublin hits that rare sweet spot: it's a capital city with real cultural and historical heft, but it still feels approachable and easy to navigate. With a greater area population around a million (and a Dublin city population substantially smaller), I never felt overwhelmed by crowds or traffic. Plus, many major sights were walkable. Even when the city center was packed for the holiday events, it was easy to navigate in and around the area. I had no trouble making my way to several sights outside the urban area, from Avoca Mill (the country's oldest working hand-weaving mill) to Kildare Village (a luxury shopping outpost). There's a strong creative energy in the air — from bookstores and galleries to street musicians — but the overall pace is slower and more relaxed than what I've experienced in bigger European capitals.

The 59 Best Amazon Member–only Fourth of July Deals to Shop Before the Sale Ends—Up to 88% Off
The 59 Best Amazon Member–only Fourth of July Deals to Shop Before the Sale Ends—Up to 88% Off

Travel + Leisure

time4 hours ago

  • Travel + Leisure

The 59 Best Amazon Member–only Fourth of July Deals to Shop Before the Sale Ends—Up to 88% Off

If you missed shopping over the holiday weekend, don't worry—there's still time to score major savings from Amazon's Fourth of July sales. But act fast: these Prime member-only travel deals are ending soon. We dug through hundreds of markdowns to find the very best, from lightweight maxi dresses and breathable linen pants to sleek luggage sets and comfy walking shoes. Prices start at just $6, with discounts reaching up to 88 percent off, but they won't stick around much longer. To access these limited-time deals, you'll need to be a Prime member, though you can still sign up for a free 30-day trial to shop these discounts today. Whether you're prepping for a long-haul flight, a last-minute road trip, or a weekend at the beach, these deals are your final chance to stock up on stylish, functional travel essentials at serious discounts. Planning a last-minute getaway or stocking up for future trips? Amazon's Prime-exclusive Fourth of July deals include steep discounts on top-rated luggage and travel bags. Score 32 percent off the lightweight Samsonite Freeform 28-inch Checked Luggage, or save up to $308 on the editor-loved Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Set. You'll also find deep markdowns on popular backpacks and duffels, ideal for carry-ons and quick weekend escapes. From full luggage sets to smart, packable bags, these deals won't last past the holiday. Samsonite Freeform 28-inch Checked Luggage, $98 (originally $280) Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 2-piece Luggage Set, $441 (originally $750) American Tourister Stratum 2.0 Expandable Carry-on Luggage, $54 (originally $90) Matein Travel Laptop Backpack, $22 (originally $40) Tilymol 3-piece Luggage Set, $114 (originally $150) Nazhura 3-piece Luggage Set, $100 (originally $160) Adidas Defender 5.0 Duffel Bag, $31 (originally $40) Wildroad Waxed Canvas Duffel Bag, $50 (originally $70) Lovevook Travel Duffel Bag, $29 (originally $40) SwissGear 1900 Laptop Backpack, $54 (originally $99) From in-flight comfort to streamlined packing, these Prime-only travel accessory and tech deals are arriving just in time for all of your summer getaways. Amazon slashed prices on top-rated bestsellers, including the Napfun Neck Pillow, snatched up by over 30,000 shoppers last month, and the Aobbow Magnetic Portable Charger, now a whopping 88 percent off. Also, score smart organizers like the OlarHike 10-set Packing Cubes for 37 percent off and the Fyy Travel Cable Organizer for just $10 to keep your next trip organized and stress-free. Smileshe Travel Jewelry Box, $6 (originally $7) Aobbow Magnetic Portable Charger, $25 (originally $200) Lisen Airplane Phone Holder, $15 (originally $25) Eachy Travel Makeup Bag, $24 (originally $29) OlarHike 10-set Packing Cubes, $17 (originally $27) Tocelffe 18-pack Travel Bottles, $10 (originally $13) Napfun Neck Pillow, $16 (originally $22) Travel Inspira Luggage Scale, $10 (originally $13) Bagail 8-set Packing Cubes, $14 (originally $25) Fyy Travel Cable Organizer, $10 (originally $13) Amazon's Fourth of July Prime deals are full of stylish, travel-ready clothing—and every piece I handpicked is under $40. The Anrabess Midi Dress is just $25, while the Zesica Maxi Dress is 37 percent off; both are perfect for walking tours, date nights, or sunset cocktails. For breezy bottoms, you can't go wrong with linen pants like the Faleave Wide-leg Linen Pants for $26 or the Amazon Essentials Drawstring Pants, now 28 percent off. These comfortable, versatile staples belong in every summer suitcase—but they won't be on sale for long. Evaless Short Sleeve Blouse, $10 (originally $18) Kkj 2-pack Tank Tops, $20 (originally $25) Zesica Maxi Dress, $36 (originally $57) Anrabess Jumpsuit, $20 (originally $30) Amazon Essentials Linen Drawstring Pants, $18 (originally $25) Lillusory Summer Vest, $25 (originally $37) Sampeel Two-piece Matching Set, $27 (originally $35) Anrabess Midi Dress, $25 (originally $33) Anrabess Wide-leg Pants, $28 (originally $36) Wiholl Crew Neck Waffle Tank Top, $6 (originally $10) Anrabess Sundress, $28 (originally $45) Faleave Wide-leg Linen Pants, $26 (originally $33) Grace Karin Maxi Dress, $48 (originally $60) Amazon's Fourth of July Prime sale is stepping up with deals on travel-friendly shoes, with prices starting at just $18. Score ultra-comfy picks like the Dr. Scholl's Women's Time Off Sneakers for long days of walking or the best-selling Bronax Pillow Slippers for just $20. Summer-inspired sandals like the Cushionaire Espadrilles and Reef Cushion Vista Sandals are perfect for dinner by the water, while supportive options like the Shevalues Orthopedic Sandals are built for all-day comfort. Whether you're heading to the airport or wandering cobblestone streets, these shoes are made to move. Dr. Scholl's Women's Time Off Sneakers, $75 (originally $110) Bronax Pillow Slippers, $20 (originally $36) Kidmi Suede Sandals, $28 (originally $40) Project Cloud Flip Flops, $30 (originally $50) Rocket Dog Women's Cheery Sneakers, $28 (originally $50) Athmile Sandals, $24 (originally $33) New Balance Women's 608 V5 Sneakers, $60 (originally $75) Reef Cushion Vista Sandals, $50 (originally $65) Adidas Women's VL Court 3.0 Sneakers, $56 (originally $75) Cushionaire Espadrille Sandals, $36 (originally $45) Clarks Women's Breeze Step Li Loafers, $48 (originally $65) Shevalues Orthopedic Sandals, $18 (originally $30) Eqaudes Platform Slip-on Espadrille Sandals, $40 (originally $50) If your summer plans include hikes, camping trips, or beach days, Amazon's outdoor deals are packed with essential travel-ready gear at major discounts. Stay sun-safe with the Baleaf UPF 50+ T-shirt for $20, or grab the breathable Viodia Hiking Cargo Shorts for warm-weather trail days. The Toumett UPF 50 Long Sleeve Shirt is up to 35 percent off, and the HiiPeak Sleeping Pad is now just $28—perfect for overnight adventures. You'll also find big savings on top-rated hiking footwear like the Teva Hurricane XLT2 Sandals and Merrell Moab 3 Hiking Boots. Whether you're camping in the woods or lounging at the park, these deals are built for the outdoors. Baleaf UPF 50+ T-shirt, $20 (originally $25) Toomett Women's Hiking Pants, $37 (originally $49) Coleman Big-n-tall Camping Chair, $44 (originally $70) Teva Women's Hurricane Xlt2 Sandals, $61 (originally $75) Merrell Women's Moab 3 Hiking Boots, $99 (originally $150) Toumett UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Shirt, $36 (originally $40) Baleaf Sun Protection Hoodie, $30 (originally $40) Viodia Women's Hiking Cargo Shorts, $27 (originally $30) Ubfen Women's Hiking Sandals, $40 (originally $50) Campros CP Tent 8-person Camping Tent, $128 (originally $180) UNP Camping Tent, $100 (originally $130) Coleman Classic Series Rolling Cooler, $83 (originally $110) HiiPeak Sleeping Pad, $28 (originally $35) Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

I'm a Former Lululemon Employee—These Are 15 'We Made Too Much' Finds I'm Shopping for Fourth of July From $29
I'm a Former Lululemon Employee—These Are 15 'We Made Too Much' Finds I'm Shopping for Fourth of July From $29

Travel + Leisure

time6 hours ago

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I'm a Former Lululemon Employee—These Are 15 'We Made Too Much' Finds I'm Shopping for Fourth of July From $29

Fourth of July is one of my favorite days of the year. But that doesn't mean you'll find me dropping big bucks at a fireworks stand in triple-digit temps this weekend. Instead, I'll be indoors—AC on full blast—upgrading my travel wardrobe at Lululemon. Before I became a travel writer, I was a store educator for Lululemon, so I'm very familiar with the brand's best-sellers. Just as importantly, I know firsthand that early July is a great time to stock up on essentials I can wear throughout the warmer months, and more often than not, the rest of the year, too. (Besides, isn't that the whole point of spring cleaning to make room for summer shopping? That's how it works in my house, at least.) If you, too, want to invest in some new looks this holiday weekend, below are 15 pieces I'm currently eyeing from Lululemon's secret 'We Made Too Much' section, which has been dubbed 'Summer Scores' due to the number of warm weather finds like sweat-wicking shorts for $39 or an ultra-soft tank dress for under $100. 'Timeless' is how I sum up this curve-hugging dress made of fabric so soft you'll swear it needs to be dry cleaned, even though it's machine washable. The ribbed texture is noticeable, but not too thick, and the contouring on the back and front could not be more flattering. Indeed, the Ribbed Softstreme Slim-Fit Tank Dress is dressy enough to wear to church or dinner, comfy enough to wear in coach, and practical enough to pair with some white sneakers for a full day of sightseeing. Shoppers say it's 'perfect' for travel and appreciate that it doesn't wrinkle. I first saw these new joggers a few weeks ago at the Lululemon pop-up shop in Jackson, Wyoming, where they take up prime real estate on a rack near the front door. Perforated for maximum airflow, they're a lightweight summer-friendly take on the traditional Adapted State High-rise Jogger (which has nearly 1,400 five-star ratings). The built-in liner keeps these pants from being see-through, and they have zippered pockets and bottom cuffs you can unzip if you want a different breezier look. Lululemon's Hotty Hot shorts have been around for years, and with nearly 3,400 five-star ratings, it's not hard to see why. Personally, I'm loving the new summer colorways, including Raspberry Coulis, Chilled Grape, and Raceway Green. Choose from two lengths: 2.5-inch and 4-inch (although the latter one is running low on stock). Both are made of 100-percent recycled polyester and feature mesh panels at the bottom for added breathability. I don't really use the liner's secret stash pocket, but I always keep a lip balm in the zippered pocket in the back. 'These are so lightweight and are great for traveling and adventures around the islands,' reads one five-star review left by a shopper who lives in Hawaii. One of Lululemon's most popular items, despite its relatively low price point, is the Everywhere Belt Bag 1L, which has racked up an incredible 24,000+ five-star ratings. I already own this best-selling bag in black, and it's served me well on my travels to all seven continents. Now that summer is here and my serotonin levels are the highest they've been all year, I'm stoked to stock up on the Lululemon belt bag in more playful colors such as Crater Blue, Lavender Lux, and Pink Dragonfruit. Don't get me wrong, I'll still wear dark hues as I often tend to do—I'll just pair my outfits with this eye-catching, and super practical, accessory. Wearing sweat-proof clothes that don't look like athletic wear on your next hot, humid vacation will be a trick you'll use over and over again. This Swiftly Tech Cropped Short-sleeve Shirt comes in tons of neutrals, bright hues, and striped patterns so you can pair it with almost anything in your suitcase. The flat seams are designed to avoid chafing, which is a plus if you're planning on sweating on an all-day walking tour or while hitting the hotel gym. Made for running, this shirt is a durable number you can reach for in almost any situation. Most of my leggings and pants are solid colors, so I'm surprised that I'm so drawn to these retro-inspired pants with contrasting color blocking. I think I like the color blocking so much because of the placement. The panels are down the sides and at the waist, elongating your legs and creating a very flattering silhouette, especially if you pair them with the matching halter top. 'I feel very 'va va voom' in this outfit,' reads one five-star review left by a shopper who owns both pieces. And because these pants are made of Lululemon's signature buttery-smooth Nulu fabric, I know they're even soft enough to sleep in. Perhaps Lululemon's most popular non-racerback tank, this lightly supportive top is so beloved by shoppers that it has more than 4,800 five-star ratings. I bought my first one three years ago at a Lululemon outlet store in Sydney, Australia, and I'd be lying if I said it wasn't a highlight of the two-week trip! Choose from more than 30 colors, and rest assured that this tank is easy to pair with wide-leg pants, high-rise leggings, workout shorts, and skirts. More importantly, it's so soft and weightless you'll forget you're wearing it (until you get compliments). 'Wore this to travel starting at 7 am and didn't take it off till midnight. It never got too tight or too hot, even after two flights and a 2-hour car ride,' wrote one satisfied shopper. Ever since stadiums started requiring clear bags, I've kind of become obsessed with the look. That's why I love this see-through mesh tote, where not even my smallest lip gloss can get lost. That said, besides the roomy main compartment, this bag has an array of pockets in assorted sizes. The exterior drop-in pockets keep larger items accessible, while the smaller interior pocket keeps valuables safe. Personally, I'd use it as a beach bag since it's so breathable, and I don't need to worry about putting wet items in it. I'm normally not a fan of skirts, but I make an exception for this Align High-rise Skirt. Why? It's so soft and features a built-in 3-inch shorts liner. The liner even has drop-in pockets, so I can store my keys and a credit card if I want to go sans bag. Choose from nine colors and two lengths: 13-inch and 15-inch, and don't plan on needing to return it because it boasts nearly 1,000 five-star ratings. One five-star review titled 'I wish I could afford to buy every color!' reads: 'I've tried other more affordable athletic skirts and this one is worth the money for sure.' The Lululemon Align High-neck Dress, definitely has a sportier look, but it's still plenty versatile, especially in these neutral white and black hues. And like every piece in the Align Collection, this wardrobe workhorse is made of super soft fabric with four-way stretch. Yes, it's short, but it features built-in shorts, complete with a game-changing open back waistband, so you can go to the bathroom without having to completely undress. Top-wise, I love the high neckline and built-in shelf bra. The cheery pink (Raspberry Coulis) color was the first thing that caught my eye about these shorts. Then I noticed the unique grid texture. While they almost look too pretty to hike in, between the abrasion-resistant fabric that repels water and the strategically placed pockets, these high-rise shorts are clearly designed for tackling the trails. However, I can see myself sporting them on pavement-pounding sightseeing days, too. Don't try if you're not prepared to buy, because the Women's Restfeel Slide will immediately win you over the second you slide into them. These slides, which have more than 2,500 five-star ratings, are an undeniable treat for your feet, especially in hot weather. Unlike other slides, they feature dual-density cushioning, so you have enough support to comfortably cover a lot of ground. 'I wear them in the house as slippers, I wear them as sandals, and I've even worn them with dresses,' wrote one shopper who describes themself as having major foot problems. Lululemon has made dozens, if not hundreds, of skirts over the years, but I don't know any as flattering as the Nulu Slim-fit High-rise Skirt. Best of all, it's 'buttery soft' and offers plenty of stretch, so you feel comfortable, not confined. There's even a slit in the back, so you have a greater range of motion, and the waistband has a secret stash pocket for your credit card, I.D., or keys. Shoppers say it's easy to dress up or dress down, and they praise its packability. This classic cotton twill hat might be the reason I break up with my dermatologist soon. (Just kidding: Routine checkups are important.) Yes, the star flower embroidery print (which comes in two colors) is cute. But I also love that this stylish hat has more technical features, such as a lining that has all the things Lululemon is famous for: four-way stretch, ultra sweat-wicking properties, and a quick-drying material for sweaty or rainy days. Bring on the sun and bad hair days—I'm ready. I've never touched a cloud, but if it feels anything like Lululemon's heavenly Like a Cloud Bra (which I've had for three years and plan on wearing to smithereens), sign me up! Currently, it's available for $49 in three gorgeous colors, all from the pink family. Even if you're not a fan of the colors, it's still worth buying. I would wear this in a hideous, drab hue with bleach spots if I had to—it's simply that comfortable. But don't just take it from me; the Like a Cloud Bra has more than 1,300 five-star ratings. 'I purchased this for vacation and fell in love with it immediately,' wrote one shopper who liked it so much that it's now their 'normal everyday bra.' Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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