The nation was counting down to the Bicentennial for many years and Washington, D. C. intended to make that July 4, 1976 a memorable day for all. As a matter of fact, events were planned for all four days. Some of the special events I saw were the American Folklife festival, NARA displaying the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights and the Constitution, a huge "American Bicentennial Grand Parade" and of course the fabulous fireworks.
Since I was living in Alexandria, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, I had no intention of missing any free events in the city. But, there was a problem for the Fourth of July activities. Too many people, and the Metro (subway) hadn't opened yet in my area. Fortunately, my first cousin, who lived two blocks from the Capital, invited me to spend two nights with her. How wonderful for me and we spent the entire time together sharing all the great and free activities together. We saw the long parade, went to a concert or two and had a superb location to watch the fireworks, from the Capital, I think we had passes, because she worked for a Texas politician, and I don't remember fighting for a spot. And when it was all over on the 4th, we were back at her place within minutes.
My photos aren't the best, actually among my worst, but I thought I would share them. Happy 4th to everybody.