With its close proximity to the nation's capital, Bethesda is an excellent place to be for the Fourth of July. But if you live in or will be visiting Maryland the first week of July, there is more to do than the parades and concerts held in the District. Here are a few of our favorite ways to honor Independence Day in Montgomery County: Summerfest 2017 in Gaithersburg Saturday, July 1 is a few days before Independence Day, but it marks the beginning of one of Maryland's biggest seasonal celebrations: Summerfest 2017. Kicking off at 5 PM with a performance by DC dance band Nation, the festival includes a lineup of R&B, soul, pop and rock acts, as well as roaming entertainers, a zip line and attractions for kids, beer tastings, a car show, and much more. Visit the official Summerfest website for a full itinerary and schedule of events. Takoma Park Fireworks and Parade 2017 This year is the 128th time the city of Takoma Park will be celebrating the birth of our nation, and it will be an event like none other! The festivities kick off at 10 AM with a parade starting at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan avenues. From there, the celebration moves to Takoma Park Middle School, where guests can enjoy dancing and musical performances, a speech by Mayor Kate Stewart, and a raffle. The event is capped off by a gorgeous fireworks display beginning at 9:30 PM – check out the official celebration website for more details. Autism Speaks 5K on July 4, 2017 If you'd prefer to celebrate Independence Day by getting active and helping a good cause, the 17th annual Autism Speaks 5K in Potomac, MD is the perfect choice. This family-friendly event is one of the region's largest races to support autism fundraising – feel free to register as a team or individual. Proceeds from the race go to research, family services, and advocacy for Autism. You can register or volunteer for the race by signing up online. Need a Bethesda hotel for Independence Day 2017? Many families and groups of friends will be traveling into the Capital area to celebrate the 4th of July. If yours is one of them, make sure you book a room at the American Inn of Bethesda. With easy access to two metro stops, quality amenities, and a friendly, helpful staff, you'll find no better place to commemorate America's birth than the American Inn.