Step OUT to celebrate July 4 in Baltimore

A pet parade and a picnic with a view are some of your options this Independence Day. Of course, there’s always the tradition of heading down to the Inner Harbor to watch the July 4 fireworks.
 
Here’s a rundown of some ways you can celebrate the holiday downtown.
 
American Visionary Art Museum
 
What: Visionary Pets on Parade
When: July 4, 10 a.m., 9:30 a.m. registration
Where: 800 Key Highway
Cost: Free
 
Baltimore’s pet population is invited to dress up and join in on the parade presented by the American Visionary Art Museum. Prizes will be awarded for best pet costumes in a variety of categories including "most patriotic." The event will also include animal games such as the Pet Talent (or Not) Show and pet musical chairs. The event is open to the public but participants must register.
 
Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore
 
What: Fourth of July celebration
When: July 4, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Where: PABU and Wit & Wisdom Tavern, 200 International Dr.
Cost: $75 for adults, $35 for children 11 and under at Wit & Wisdom; $65 per person at PABU
 
Chef Clay Miller will be presenting guests at the Wit & Wisdom’s celebration with an all-American meal, including fried chicken, pulled pork BBQ and grilled corn with Old Bay butter. PABU will offer a four-course meal for foodies. The waterfront hotel affords a view of the fireworks.
 
Inner Harbor
 
What: Ports America Chesapeake July 4 celebration
When: July 4, 4 – 10 p.m.
Where: Inner harbor
Cost: Free
 
This celebration in downtown Baltimore will include music and fireworks. Live music will be presented at the Inner Harbor amphitheater by reggae band Jah Works, followed by the U.S. Naval Academy Band Electric Brigade. At 8:30, Mayor Stephanie Rawling-Blake will kick off a 19-minute fireworks display that can be viewed from the Inner Harbor as well as surrounding neighborhoods.
 

What: Picnic at the Top
When: July 4, 7:30 – 10 p.m.
Where: World Trade Center, 401 E Pratt St.
Cost: $50 for adults, $25 for children ages 3-12
 
Picnic at the Top offers attendees the chance to view the July 4 fireworks. The festivities will include a selection of foods, non-alcoholic beverages and face painting for children.

Photos courtesy of the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts.