The toughest part of Fourth of July events in Washington, D.C., is choosing which to attend. Consider some of these top events to make your holiday sparkle:

» The National Mall. As everyone knows, that’s the area’s main gathering point to watch the fireworks display over the monuments and reflecting pool. Details: Gates open at 10 a.m. and fireworks start at dusk, usually about 9 p.m. Metro will run from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. and the Smithsonian station will remain open this year (It’s been closed on July 4 every year since the 2001 terrorist attacks). Rain date: July 5