This event has been canceled in 2020.

Maryland usually goes all out for the Fourth of July and the small town of Frederick gets into the patriotic spirit. Independence Day activities from noon to dusk at Baker Park and Culler Lake include two stages of live music, a volleyball tournament, food contests, patriotic pageants, and more. To top off the day, the community gathers to celebrate the holiday with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk.

Directions and Parking

Frederick, part of the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area, is located in north-central Maryland. If you're in Washington, D.C., or Baltimore, it's an easy hour drive west to Frederick. The 58-acre (23-hectare) Baker Park is the ideal location for a full day of family fun. In addition to the special holiday events, recreation facilities include Culler Lake, a public swimming pool, several playgrounds, athletic fields, and picnic areas.

Free parking is provided all day in the parking decks at West Patrick Street (the closest to the event), Church Street, Court Street, and Carroll Creek. Limited paid parking is usually available at Frederick High School at 650 Carroll Parkway.

Reserved permit parking for those with disabilities is clearly marked along Second Street just west of College Avenue and the intersection of West College Terrace.

Children's Activities

There is plenty of good old-fashioned fun for children, including pony rides, a petting zoo where guests can cuddle with a favorite farm animal and take a photo on a giant rocking chair, and various inflatable amusements.

Relive your childhood with your little ones riding the carousel and enjoying a do-it-yourself peanut butter and jelly tent. The entertainment goes on with moon bounces, a dunk tank, a candy cannon, watching wobbly-legged stilt walkers, and a martial arts demo for your karate kids. For rides and amusements in the Carillon Area, you will need to buy tickets or wristbands (for unlimited activities).

Beer, Wine, and Spirits Gardens

There are three beer, wine, and spirit gardens set up throughout the park where you can enjoy wine, sangria, local and national craft beers, and signature cocktails made by local distilleries. All guests must be 21 years of age or older with valid identification to enter and drink. At the Family-Friendly Garden, anyone under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There's a small cover charge for a day pass. Locations include:

Talley Recreation Center Garden, Second Street next to the Talley Recreation Center

Family-Friendly Garden, Carillon Area of Baker Park, Close to the Second Street Tennis Courts

Country Stage Garden, adjacent to the Fleming Avenue Tennis Courts

Fourth of July Fireworks

Arrive early to get seats for the fireworks, which are shot off from Parkway Elementary School at dusk. The best viewing areas are surrounding the swimming pool on Fleming Avenue, on the Frederick High School lawn, or in the Carillon Area of Baker Park. Though the show is visible from most areas of Baker Park, there is limited visibility from the Drees Home Bandshell Stage Seating Area and the adjacent playground.

Event Tips

To ensure a smooth and safe holiday, there are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your Independence Day at Baker Park.