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Annual Events, Community

Independence Day Celebration

Rockville’s Independence Day Celebration is held annually at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park in King Farm. The park offers excellent spectator viewing and ample, convenient parking for the Fourth of July festivities. Enjoy live music and a 20-minute fireworks display.

2026 Event Details

Saturday, July 4, 2026
7 – 10 p.m.

Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park
1800 Piccard Drive
Rockville, MD 20850

General Information

  • No chairs or blankets allowed within 100 feet of the stage.
  • Bring beach chairs or blankets to ensure comfortable seating. Please be mindful of others so everyone can enjoy the show.
  • Outside, prepared food is permitted.
  • Onsite recycling supports Rockville’s sustainability efforts.
  • Most events take place rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, cancellations will be posted at rockvillemd.gov/IndependenceDay.

For the safety of all, please follow these guidelines:

  • No tents, barbecuing, or open flames.
  • Pets are discouraged. Service animals permitted.
  • No outside alcohol.
  • No wheeled recreational devices.
  • No noisemakers, glass containers, drones, or laser pointers.
  • No weapons, illegal substances, or explosives.
  • No throwing footballs, flying discs, baseballs, or other projectiles.

Amenities

  • Food and beverage vendors.
  • Restrooms, including ADA-accessible units.
  • ADA viewing platform.
  • First aid.
  • Bike parking.

Free parking is available in lots along Shady Grove Road, Gaither Road, and Piccard Drive. Attendees are encouraged to use Route 355, Gude Drive, and Shady Grove Road to access these parking lots. Once near the event site, follow event signage, not your GPS.

Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at 2012 Gaither Road for vehicles with a placard or plate. Access this lot via Shady Grove Road or Gaither Road. Display your placard upon arrival.

View Parking Map

There is no access to the pickleball, basketball, bankshot, or tennis courts; dog park; football field; or parking lots at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park from 7 a.m. Friday, July 3 until noon Sunday, July 5. All closures are subject to change.

Schedule of Events

TimeEvent
7 p.m.Live Music by Run for Cover
8:30 p.m.Mayor and Council Greeting
8:55 p.m.National Anthem
9-9:13 p.m.Live Music by Run for Cover
9:15 p.m.Fireworks Display

Food Vendors

Interested in participating in the event as a food vendor? To be considered, download the application below and be sure to review all event rules and regulations before submitting. Completed applications must be received by Friday, June 5, 2026.

2026 Food Vendor Application

2026 Event Sponsors

Thank you to our event sponsors!

Renewal by Andersen
School of Rock Rockville

Logo with large blue "250," red "America," blue "City of Rockville" seal, and "Rise Together" text, marking Rockville's participation in America's 250th anniversary.

In honor of America’s 250th birthday, this event will feature celebratory touches commemorating this historic milestone.

Sponsor the Independence Day Celebration

Learn how your business can support the event while gaining visibility with attendees.

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Contact

Recreation and Parks Department
Special Events Division
240-314-8620
specialevents@rockvillemd.gov

Hours
Monday – Friday
8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Address
Taft Center
6 Taft Court
Rockville, MD 20850

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