Greenbelt Fireworks Still on Schedule for July 4th at Buddy Attick Park

On July Fourth, Buddy Attick Park will serve as the focal point of Independence Day festivities in Greenbelt. The recent derecho storm will not derail the day’s activities.

“There have been no changes to the schedule so far,” said Kenny Hall, director of Greenbelt’s Department of Public Works. “If there are thunderstorms, they could delay the start of fireworks anywhere from a few minutes to the next evening, but we really hope that doesn’t happen!” he continued.

Starting at noon, Greenbelt Babe Ruth will be on hand serving hot dog, snow cones, nachos, BBQ chicken tacos, hamburgers, grilled corn on the cob and much more.

Other planned activities include:

• 5:45 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.: Greenbelt Concert Band at the bandstand.
• 7:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Drum Circle at the bandstand, facilitated by Katy Gaughan. Participants of all ages can listen or take part. Drum Circle invites Fourth-goers to bring their own percussion instruments or use the ones provided by Gaughan. No experience is necessary
• Around 9 p.m.: Fireworks will start as soon as it is dark enough. In case of inclement weather, call the recreation department's hotline for an update: (301) 474-0646.

Additionally, the Greenbelt Police Department has issued the following safety and informational tips:

• A tent occupied by Police Department employees will be located in the grassy area alongside of the main parking lot in order to provide first aid and to help with lost and missing children.
• Please do not bring alcoholic beverages to the park.  Alcohol is strictly prohibited in this and all city-owned parks and violators will be subject to arrest.  
• All pets must be on a leash, but it is strongly recommended that pets be left at home during the festivities, as history has shown some dogs are frightened by the loud fireworks causing them to panic, bite and/or run away. 
• Not only are fireworks deadly and dangerous, but citizens are reminded that ALL forms of fireworks are prohibited by law in the City of Greenbelt.  Anyone found possessing fireworks will be subject to arrest.  Penalties include fines up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail.
• For safety and security reasons, people carrying coolers and packages into the park should expect to be asked to have the contents of those packages inspected.
• Temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted on the streets surrounding the park.  Please do not park in these areas or your vehicle will be towed.
• Due to the ongoing construction and loose soil, motorists should not plan to park on Kenilworth Avenue to watch the fireworks.  If you do park adjacent to Kenilworth, make sure your car is completely off of the roadway.  If your vehicle is protruding onto the roadway or shoulder, you will be required to move it.  The roadway must remain clear for the passage of emergency vehicles.
• The fireworks will begin at dusk (approx. 9:00 PM) and last 20-30 minutes. At the conclusion, traffic will be redirected outbound on Crescent Road toward Kenilworth Avenue. Inbound traffic entering ‘Old Greenbelt’ from Kenilworth Avenue will not be allowed onto Crescent Road until the bulk of the cars have left the area. 
• Motorists exiting the beltway will not be allowed to proceed north on Kenilworth Avenue. 
• Interstate 495 traffic will be directed onto southbound Kenilworth Avenue.  Motorists who need to go to the ‘Old Greenbelt’ area can take eastbound Greenbelt Road.
• If the fireworks begin on time and no problems are encountered at the conclusion, these temporary changes in traffic patterns should not last any longer than 30-45 minutes, from about 9:45 to 10:30 P.M.