There are events galore this weekend celebrating the ol’ Red, White & Blue. A few of the highlights: Uncle Sam Jam at National Harbor, Saturday
The Uncle Sam Jam has one interesting lineup. The headliners are Blind Melon, best known for the ’90s hit “No Rain” and a video featuring a girl in a bee costume, now touring again after the 1995 death of lead singer Shannon Hoon. Also on the bill are the Wailers, which became famous working with the departed Bob Marley. And Virginia’s own Pat McGee. Plus a number of other bands and DJs. Food and drink are plentiful.
When: From 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday
Info: General admission tickets are $40, VIP $75; 21-plus; theunclesamjam.com
Freedom Fest at Yards Park, Sunday and Monday
An event so big, Freedom Fest needs two days to hold all the action. Of the more than 40 acts on five stages scheduled to play, highlights include the Dirty Heads, as well as a bunch of local bands and DJs. Lots of drinks, a Splashdown zone, and a special Taste of Freedom.
When: 2 to 9 p.m. Sunday, 1 to 9 p.m. Monday
Info: Ticket prices increase as the event gets closer. At press time, general admission is $25 for a one-day pass and $35 for a two-day pass, and VIP is $65 for a one-day and $100 for a two-day pass; general admission all ages, VIP 21-plus; nationalfreedomfest.com
A Capitol Fourth — America’s Independence Day Celebration on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, Monday
When it comes to entertainment, there’s something for everybody at A Capitol Fourth. The event includes host Jimmy Smits, Josh Groban, Matthew Morrison, Steve Martin, Jordin Sparks, Little Richard, the National Symphony Orchestra and more. Wow. And if you can’t make it to this free show, PBS airs it live.
When: 8 to 9:30 p.m. Monday, gates open at 3 p.m.
Info: Free; pbs.org/capitolfourth
Family-friendly …
There are plenty of family-friendly July Fourth events. Two standouts are the National Independence Day Parade down Constitution Avenue, and the reading of the Declaration of Independence in front of the National Archives.
When: Declaration reading at 10 a.m. Monday in front of the Archives; parade starts at 11:45 a.m. Monday
Info: Free; july4thparade.com, archives.gov
Washington Nations vs. Chicago Cubs, Monday
What better way to celebrate American than by taking in America’s pastime? The Nats take on the Cubs at Nationals Park on Monday afternoon. The first 20,000 fans get a special patriotic Nationals hat.
When: First pitch 1:05 p.m. Monday
Info: Tickets available at washingtonnationals.com
