For many folks, the Fourth of July holiday has always been simply an enjoyable day off, a day for barbecuing at home, heading to the beach, relaxing at the pool or catching the local parade and fireworks show. But after the events of Sept. 11, lots of us are feeling more thoughtful about our national holidays. Perhaps never in our nation's history has our patriotism been so profound and evident.
Yes, the many local celebrations of Independence Day will include such festive activities as pie-eating contests, turtle races, costume contests, car shows and carnivals, but there also will be solemn notes of remembrance in the patriotic parades, flag-raisings and music.
Following is a list of Fourth of July events all around Maryland and in Washington. A few events are tomorrow or during the weekend. Take your pick, and start the celebrating.
Anne Arundel County
Annapolis
Independence Day parade begins at 6:30 p.m. at St. John's Street and proceeds through downtown Annapolis. Music by the United States Naval Academy Band at 8 p.m. at the academy's Farragut Field. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. at the Annapolis Harbor. Rain date July 5. Call 410-263-7958.
William Paca House. Old-fashioned celebration with music by tenor Douglas Jimerson, fife-and-drum performances, 18th-century interpreters, sack races, children's games and crafts, more, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Call 410-267-7619.
Shady Side
Captain Salem Avery House Museum. Flag-raising, games for children, music by the Bay Winds Band and the Shady Side Sour Notes, food, more, beginning at 12:30 p.m. Call 301-261-5234.
Baltimore City
Official Baltimore City celebration takes place at the Harborplace Amphitheatre, Sam Smith Light Street parking lot and Inner Harbor. Street performers, music by the Air Force Band's High Flight, more, noon-10 p.m. at the Harborplace Amphitheatre. Antique-car show 11 a.m.-5 p.m. in the parking lot. Inner Harbor fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Rain date: July 5. Call 877-BALTIMORE.
Federal Hill. "Up on the Roof" event features live music, food and fireworks, beginning at 5 p.m. on top of the West Street parking garage. $5. Call 410-528-8888.
Baltimore Museum of Industry. Catered food, live music by Bay Street Brassworks, family activities and a great view of the Inner Harbor fireworks, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. $50; $25 ages 6-12; free for ages 5 and under. Call 410-727-4808, Ext. 133, for tickets.
