The WMATA is rolling out “Celebrate America with Metro” on July 4, celebrating Independence Day by offering free Metrorail rides after 5 p.m.
The Metro will run frequently from 7 a.m. to midnight on July 4, with free fares from 5 p.m. to midnight (so no need for your SmarTrip cards!). Metro parking will also be free at Metro stations and its garages.
“Metro will be celebrating Independence Day the best way we can—by providing frequent service to help customers get to the festivities around the region and back home safely,” Metro Board Chairman Paul C. Smedberg told NBC Washington.
The WMATA is hoping these steps will accommodate the surge of crowds in D.C. using public transportation following the District’s Fourth of July festivities and fireworks.
D.C.’s Fourth of July fireworks display at the National Mall draws thousands nationwide each year and was just ranked as the No. 8 “must-see firework spectacular” in the country.
The fireworks will be set off from each side of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool around 9:15 p.m. Metro riders should expect longer lines for entering the Metro stations near the National Mall for up to 60 minutes following the fireworks.
To promote safety and avoid overcrowding, the Smithsonian Station will be “exit only” beginning at 5 p.m. before becoming “entry only” after 9 p.m. The Metro Transit Police Department may also monitor and restrict station entry if crowds form to prevent overcrowding and unsafe conditions.
Customers are encouraged to take advantage of the Metro’s live train map on its app and website to keep up to date on when trains are arriving and help plan their trips.
For more information, please visit the WMATA website.