Laurel, MD – The City of Laurel and the Laurel 4th of July Committee are proud to announce plans for the 46th Annual Independence Day Celebration, taking place on Saturday, July 5, 2025. This year’s celebration will feature exciting festivities for the entire family, including the parade, live music, family fun activities, and the annual fireworks spectacular at Granville Gude Park.
Please note: Out of an abundance of caution and in response to rising summer temperatures and nationwide concerns regarding parade route safety, modifications have been made to both the parade route and event schedule.
The parade will now kick off at 3:00 PM, with participant lineup beginning at 2:00 PM along Marshall Avenue between 4th Street and Route 1 Southbound. The parade will step off from 4th Street and Marshall Avenue, proceed south down 4th Street, and conclude at Cherry Lane. These changes eliminate the parade crossing over Route 198, reducing safety risks for participants and spectators alike.
Event Schedule – Saturday, July 5, 2025 (Weather Permitting)
- 2:00 PM – Parade Registration and Lineup (Marshall Avenue)
- 3:00 PM – Parade Begins (Judging Stand located on Domer Court)
- 3:00 PM – Vendors Open for Business
- 4:00 PM – Family Fun Events at Granville Gude Park
- 5:15 PM – Live Music by Oracle
- 8:45 PM – Evening Program: Invocation, National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, Welcome Remarks, and Introductions of Mayor, City Council, and Special Guests
- 9:00 PM – Test Fireworks
- 9:15 PM – Grand Fireworks Show over the Lake
Parade Grand Marshals
The Laurel 4th of July Committee is proud to announce this year’s Grand Marshals: Laurel High School’s State Champions. Come out and cheer them on along the parade route!
Safety Reminders
To ensure a safe event for all, the following items and actions are strictly prohibited:
- No Backpacks or Bookbags
- No Coolers
- No Alcohol
- No Personal Fireworks
- No Pets (for their safety and comfort)
To assist with summer heat concerns, a Water Station will be available at the Judge’s Stand on Domer Court.
Fireworks Viewing & Road Closures
The fireworks show is one of Laurel’s most cherished traditions. However, for public safety, Cherry Lane (Eastbound and Westbound) from Ashford Boulevard to Laurel Place will be closed from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM for both vehicles and pedestrians.
Access Details:
- Limited vehicle access to Laurel Lakes Executive Park via Cherry Lane will be permitted until 12:00 PM
- Pedestrians cannot walk down Cherry Lane to access Gude Park; please use Ashford Boulevard to Oxford Drive, then follow the walking path across the lake to the Lakehouse
- Pedestrians coming from 4th Street should use Karl Brendle Way near the Evolution Apartments to access the Centre at Laurel Lakes
All attendees are urged to exercise caution when traveling in the area, as large crowds and increased pedestrian traffic are expected.
Parking
Limited parking and road closures will affect accessibility. Residents and visitors are encouraged to carpool, arrive early, and respect surrounding neighborhoods and businesses when parking. Please be patient and plan accordingly for crowds and traffic.
Weather & First Aid
Weather conditions will be monitored closely. Updates and potential schedule changes will be announced via the City of Laurel’s social media platforms (@cityoflaurel, @laurelcityoem).
At this time, forecasts indicate sunny conditions with temperatures around 88°F. A First Aid Station will be available at the Lakehouse, and a Misting Machine will be onsite to help attendees cool down.
Stay Connected on Event Day
Stay informed with real-time updates and alerts about the Independence Day Celebration by texting LAURELMD4TH to 888777 to opt in.
For those unable to attend in person, Laurel TV will provide live coverage:
- Parade Broadcast: Begins at 3:00pm on the City of Laurel Government Facebook page (@LaurelMaryland)
- Fireworks & Evening Events: Live coverage begins around 9:15 PM
Watch on Comcast 71/996HD, Verizon 12, or online at www.LaurelTV.org.
