Fourth of July 2010 events in Bethesda MD area

If you're not ready to brave the crowds on Independence Day, or even the 3rd of July practice session, at the National Mall in Washington DC, here are a few festivities that might be a little closer to home! All events are free.

Bethesda MD: bell-ringing ceremony hosted by the Ark and Dove Society, 1:30pm Sunday in Veterans' Park (Norfolk and Woodmont Avenues). The event will include a reading of the Declaration of Independance and the striking of the bell by representatives from each of the original 13 colonies, using a replica of the Liberty Bell.

Kensington MD: fireworks at Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Mill Road, live music and children's games starting 7:30pm, fireworks 9:15. Also, bike parade on Monday, featuring Kensington residents young and old, showing off their red, white and blue decorations. Starts 10am in St Paul Park, participants should arrive 9:15.

Rockville MD: at Montgomery College Football Stadium, 51 Mannakee Street, an evening program starting at 7pm with the Fugitive Brass Quintet, 9:30 pm fireworks.

Envoy a fun and safe 4th of July -- could we please put this glorious weather in a bottle to have for for the rest of the summer ?