4th of July Fireworks (Event Over)

The McLean Community Center’s (MCC) annual 2009 4th of July Celebration at Langley High School features a fireworks show, and so much more. Families come early to picnic and take advantage of the staged entertainment, food, amusement rides and field games---not to mention the funnel cakes---that give the event a special hometown feel. The celebration will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, on the athletic field. Admission and parking are free. In case of inclement weather, a rain date of Sunday, July 5, has been set. Langley High School is located at 6520 Georgetown Pike. Dogs, fireworks, sparklers and alcohol are not allowed on school grounds.

Tenor Daniel Rodriguez , a former New York City police officer, who has appeared on “The Today Show,” “Oprah” and other national television programs will perform Proud to be an American, a program of patriotic songs including God Bless America and America the Beautiful. The unfortunate events of 9-11 spurred Rodriguez to fame as he sang for several of the special occasions honoring the fallen. He will be joined by his wife, Maria Rodriguez, a noted soprano.

The fireworks display will be provided by Melrose Pyrotechnics of South Carolina. The Joint Armed Forces Color Guard from the Military District of Washington will present the colors and Rodriguez will sing the national anthem. Other attractions at the celebration include carnival rides and amusements, field games by Games People Play II, music, free face painting, free balloon sculptures and a variety of food and beverages. The fireworks will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m.

A free shuttle bus service will be available from St. John’s Episcopal Church (6715 Georgetown Pike) and MCC (1234 Ingleside Ave.), beginning at 7 p.m. A handicap-accessible bus will be available at the Center.

For more information, call 703-790-0123/TTY: 711, or visit www.mcleancenter.org .