This week, Annapolis joins in the nationwide celebration of the great U.S. of A. with fireworks, a parade, live music, and tons of other enticing events. Keep reading below and find what you’re looking for.

Annapolis Entertainment

Annapolis has arguably one of the best Independence Day shows around and this year will be no different. The free, family friendly night of activities begins with the annual parade around downtown Annapolis, starting at 6:30 p.m. The parade begins at Amos Garrett Blvd. then heads to the heart of downtown at Market Space. Randall Street, Main Street, West Street, and Church Circle are all part of the route and make for great observation spots. Following the parade is the Naval Academy Band performance at 8 p.m., detailed below. After the performance, the fireworks commence around 9:15 p.m. Severn River, Spa Creek, and Jonas Green Park make for excellent observation spots.

In true patriotic fashion, the USNA Band will again perform for the Fourth of July from downtown Annapolis. City Dock hosts this grand celebration of music and America on Friday from 8-9 p.m. Stay afterward for the fireworks! No tickets or passes are required. Bring the family and enjoy the show. For more details, visit www.usna.edu.

Can’t make it to the July 4th musical fiasco? Meet the USNA Band’s Electric Brigade at Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis the next day for an exciting show. The group starts around 6:30 and ends around 8 p.m. Like the above show, this one is also kid-friendly. For more, head to the site listed above.

Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre opens a new performance this week: Shout! The Mod Musical. This wild and feminine cast follows women living in London during the age of swing and women’s liberation. You’ll adore the hopes, dances, and characteristics of the actresses on stage. The show opens June 27 and continues through mid July. Tickets are available on www.summergarden.com.

Annapolis History

Not surprisingly, the historical foundations of Annapolis quite anticipate the Fourth of July, not just for its red, white, and blue, but for its festive opportunities. This Friday, the William Paca House opens their doors for a toast to Mr. Paca, a signer of the Declaration, in the form of house and garden tours and chances to meet Mr. Paca. Admission is free and tours run every hour from 11:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Earlier in the day, a very official reenactment of the signing of the Declaration will take place at the Paca House from 10 to 11 a.m. This event is also free and open to all. For more, please go to www.annapolis.org.