What is DJ Neekola’s most enjoyable Independence Day memory of recent years?
Earning that paycheck.
“I’m usually working,” laughed Neekola, who can be found spinning frequently in the Washington area.
On Saturday, Neekola helps kick off local Independence Day celebrations by performing at the Great American Festival at National Harbor. The event includes sets by Eve 6, Ozomatli, See-I, the Dance Party and more.
Last year, Neekola spun at the National FreedomFest. This year, the FreedomFest and the Uncle Sam Jam have joined forces to form the Great American Festival.
In addition to the Saturday show, Neekola plans to line something up at a local club on Wednesday.
“People are ready to have a good time,” Neekola said of Independence Day crowds.
DJ Neekola grew up in Richmond and has fond memories of Fourth of July trips to Ocean City while in college. She’s lived in Washington for five years and finds there’s something special about Fourth of July celebrations in D.C.
“For me, it’s a unique feeling,” she said. “It’s the nation’s capital.”
And how about all those people on the Mall to catch Wednesday’s fireworks show?
“Yeah, it’s super crowded,” Neekola laughed.
Where to go
July 4 this year falls on a Wednesday, which is actually a good thing because the fun spreads to the previous weekend. Here are five ways to get your fill of food, drinks, live music and fireworks the next few days:
Great American Festival at National Park, Saturday
Twelve bands on three stages with food, drinks and fireworks over the Potomac. General admission is $40, VIP is $70. 3 to 10 p.m. Saturday. greatamericanfestival.com.
Red, White & Brew Pub Crawl, Saturday, Tuesday and Wednesday
Three pub crawls on three days. Registration at Bread & Brew. Enjoy $2 drafts, $3 bottles and $4 Freedom Cocktails. $15 for one day, $25 for a three-day pass. Registration is noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and 3 to 10 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. pubcrawls.com.
Starrs & Stripes Party on the Potomac, Wednesday
Head to the corner of Half and M streets across from the Navy Yard Metro stop for this party, sponsored by Starr Hill Brewery of Charlottesville. Enjoy live music headlined by Perpetual Groove, food and games. General admission is $20, VIP is $120. 4:30 to 11:30 p.m. Wednesday. starrsandstripes.com.
A Capitol Fourth, Wednesday
This annual show on the West Lawn of the Capitol is back once again. Tom Bergeron of “Dancing With the Stars” hosts, and performers include recent “American Idol” winner Phillip Phillips, Megan Hilty, Matthew Broderick, Kool & the Gang and more. The event is free, and gates open at 3 p.m. The show is from 8 to 9:30 p.m., but get there early if you want to view the concert. You can also avoid the crowds and watch the show on your local PBS channel. pbs.org/capitolfourth.
Fireworks at the National Mall, Wednesday
If you’ve never been, you’ve got to do this at least once. Sure, it’s crowded as all heck, but there’s something special about seeing fireworks over the monuments. Free. Starts at 9:10 p.m. and is expected to run 17 minutes. nps.gov/foju/fireworks.htm
