Independence Day Events on US Capitol Grounds

On Friday, July 4, 2003 the Annual Independence Day Concert will take place on the West Lawn of the United States Capitol. There will also be a dress rehearsal on the evening of July 3, 2003. Both events will open to the public at 2:30 p.m.

Due to the nature of the event, additional security precautions will be taken to ensure the safety and security of those in attendance. Anyone attending the event will be required to pass through security screening before entering the event site. This will include an administrative search of all bags, coolers, backpacks and closed containers.

Anyone planning to attend is encouraged to use public transportation and to bring plenty of drinking water. The United States Capitol Police would also like to remind everyone that DC law prohibits the possession of any open alcoholic beverages.

In addition, the following streets will be closed to unauthorized traffic beginning a approximately 4:00 p.m. on July 2nd and will remain in effect until the conclusion of the event:

• First Street between Constitution Avenue, NW and Independence Avenue SW
• Pennsylvania Avenue, NW between First Street, NW and Third Street, NW
• Maryland Avenue, SW between First Street, SW and Third Street, NW

If there are any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact Officer Jessica Gissubel in the United States Capitol Police Public Information Office at 202-224-1677.

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