Holiday Schedule for Independence Day on Friday, July 4

The Montgomery County Government and programs that impact County residents will follow a holiday schedule with changes for the observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 4.

Schedule changes for the holiday include:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311—Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On Bus Service—Will operate on a Saturday schedule. View route schedules here.
• Ride On extRa Pink and extRa Lime—Will operate on a Saturday schedule.
• Ride On Flash Bus Service—The Orange Route will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule. The Blue Route (typically, weekday only) will not be in service.
• Ride On extRa (Route 101) and Flex—Will not operate
• MARC Train—Will operate on Saturday schedule on the Penn Line only. No service on Brunswick or Camden lines.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Closed.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Sunday Holiday schedule with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday schedule.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Friday, July 4. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, July 5.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center—Entire facility is closed.
• Outdoor Pools— Open from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. & 3-6 p.m.
• Recreation, Senior and Indoor Aquatic Centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.


Additional information for Montgomery Parks facilities:

• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits offices—Closed.
• Montgomery Parks customer service office—Closed.
• BMX Pump Track at South Germantown Recreational Park—Closed.
• Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena—Closed.
• Wheaton Indoor Tennis and Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center—Closed.
• Indoor nature facilities—Closed. (Trails and nature play areas for all nature centers remain open from sunrise to sunset).
• Open Parkways will operate on a normal schedule for the July Fourth holiday weekend, except on the portion affected by the Purple Line construction. During this time, parkways are open to pedestrians and bicyclists and closed to motor vehicles.
• Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Avenue and Piney Branch Road will be on an amended schedule due to Purple Line construction. Click here to learn more about this change.
• Beach Drive between Knowles Avenue and Cedar Lane (2.2 miles) and Sligo Creek Parkway between Forest Glen Road and University Boulevard West Friday, July 4 at 9 a.m. until Sunday, July 6 at 6 p.m.
• Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Avenue and Piney Branch Road Saturday, July 5 at 7 a.m. until Sunday, July 6 at 6 p.m.

Montgomery County Holiday Schedule for New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have schedule and program changes for New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1.

• County offices—Closed Jan. 1.
• MC 311—Closes early on Dec. 31, with hours 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed on Jan.1.
• State offices and courts—Closed Jan. 1.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed Jan. 1.
• Libraries—Branches will close at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Closed on Jan. 1.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open regular hours on Dec. 31. Closed Jan. 1.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed Jan. 1.
• Ride On—On Dec. 31, will operate on a Weekday service schedule. On Jan. 1, will operate a Sunday schedule.
• Ride On Flex and Ride On extRa—On Dec. 31, will operate a Weekday schedule. On Jan. 1, Ride On Flex and Ride On extRa will not be in service.
• Flash—On Dec. 31, the Blue and Orange route will operate a Weekday schedule. On Jan. 1, the Orange route will operate a Weekend/Holiday schedule. On Jan. 1, the Blue route will not be in service.
• MARC Train—On Dec. 30 and 31, trains will operate on the “R” schedule on all three lines. There will be no service on Jan. 1. More information at https://www.mta.maryland.gov/marc-holiday-service.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 6 a.m.–6 p.m. on Dec. 31. Closed Jan. 1.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a regular schedule on Dec. 31. On Jan. 1, will operate on a Sunday service schedule. More details at https://www.wmata.com/schedules/timetables/.
• Metrorail—On Tuesday, Dec. 31, will operate on a regular weekday schedule, with service starting at 5 a.m. and ending at 2 a.m. On Jan. 1, will operate on a reduced Sunday schedule from 7 a.m.-midnight. For more details, visit https://www.wmata.com/schedules/timetables/index.cfm.
• Public Parking Garages, Lots, Curbside Meters—Posted rates and restrictions in effect Dec. 31. Free parking on Jan. 1.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Jan. 1. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with final collections on Jan. 4.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center—Closes early at 3 p.m. on Dec. 31. Closed Jan. 1.
• Aquatic Centers—Will close at 3 p.m. on Dec. 31. Closed Jan. 1.
• Community Recreation and Senior Centers—Closed Jan. 1. For additional information on adjusted holiday hours, visit Recreation’s website.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit MontgomeryParks.org.  

Visit with Santa on a 'Holly Trolley Ride' at Capital Trolley Museum Dec. 14-22

 

Join the Capital Trolley Museum for a festive "Holiday Trolley Ride" from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15 and Friday-Sunday, Dec. 20-22. Visit with Santa on the mile-long woodland railroad, featuring a holiday ride on historic street cars. Enjoy a model railroad display in collaboration with the Washington, Virginia & Maryland Garden Railway Society, crafts for children, photo opportunities, hot chocolate and treats.

Tickets are $12.75 per person (ages 18-64) and $10.75 per person (ages 2-17). Purchase tickets online. Holly Trolley rides without Santa are also available each day. Purchase tickets online.

Special Holiday Schedules for Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, Nov. 28, and on Friday, Nov. 29

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28. In some cases, special schedules also will be in effect on Friday, Nov. 29

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, Nov. 28, are stated below. If schedules are altered for Friday, Nov. 29, those changes are noted in addition:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores closed.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On Bus Service—Will operate on a Sunday schedule. View route schedules here.
• Ride On extRa Pink and extRa Lime—Will operate on a Sunday schedule.
• Ride On Flash Bus Service—The Orange Route will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule. The Blue Route (typically, weekday only) will not be in service.
• Ride On extRa (Route 101) and Flex - Will not operate
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Closed.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• MARC Train—No service on all three lines on Nov. 28. The Penn Line will operate on a Saturday schedule on Friday, Nov. 29. There will be no service on the Brunswick and Camden lines on Nov. 29.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a “Reduced Saturday Schedule,” with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday schedule. Find more information at https://www.wmata.com/schedules/index.cfm.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free on Thanksgiving Day. Charges and enforcement resume on Nov. 29.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Thursday, Nov. 28. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, Nov. 30.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Recreation Centers: Closed on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29.
• Aquatic Centers—Closed Nov. 28. Open Nov. 29
• Senior Centers—Closed on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.

Additional information for Montgomery Parks:

• The Open Parkways program will be extended for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. During this time, parkways are open to pedestrians and bicyclists and closed to motor vehicles. Impacted roads include Beach Drive between Knowles Avenue and Cedar Lane (2.2 miles), which will be closed to vehicles from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, through 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, and Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Avenue and Piney Branch Road and between Forest Glen Road and University Boulevard West. It will be closed to vehicles from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, through 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1.
• Open on Nov. 28: Parks, trails, gardens, nature center trails and outdoor nature play areas, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts.
• Open on Nov. 28: The inline hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreation Park and street hockey/futsal rink at Dewey Local Park may be permitted or are available on first-come, first-serve (if not reserved).
• Open on Nov. 28—Picnic shelters and campfire rings—available for rental at several locations.
• Open on Nov. 28—Little Bennett campground.
• Open on Nov. 28—Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena
• Open on Nov. 28—South Germantown Driving Range
• Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton—Closed Nov. 25-28.
• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits office—Closed.
• Montgomery Parks customer service office—Closed.
• Brookside Gardens Visitor Center and Conservatory—Closed Nov. 28-29.

Montgomery County Department of Transportation to Offer Free Parking in County Garages and Lots on Saturday, Nov. 30 and Saturday, Dec. 21

 

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is offering free parking in County-owned garages and lots on Saturday, November 30 and Saturday, December 21. The free parking days are scheduled during two of the biggest shopping days of the year.

Parking fees at on-street meters will still be enforced on those days.

‘Christmas on the Farm’ Returns to Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood on Dec. 7-8

The free annual look at how the holidays would be celebrated in the historic agricultural areas of Montgomery County will be on display Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7-8, at “Christmas on the Farm” at the Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood. The event will run from noon-5 p.m. each day.

The Agricultural History Farm Park is located at 18400 Muncaster Road in Derwood. In addition to free admission, parking also is free.

The day will include hayrides, farm animals, free cider and cookies, a bake sale table, barn decorations, holiday crafts and music.

For more information, go to friendsofthefarmpark.org.

The event is sponsored by Friends of the Agricultural History Farm Park, Inc., with the support of Montgomery Parks.

 

Holiday Special Schedules for Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, Nov. 28, and on Friday, Nov. 29

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28. In some cases, special schedules also will be in effect on Friday, Nov. 29

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, Nov. 28, are stated below. If schedules are altered for Friday, Nov. 29, those changes are noted in addition:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores closed.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On Bus Service—Will operate on a Sunday schedule. View route schedules here.
• Ride On extRa Pink and extRa Lime—Will operate on a Sunday schedule.
• Ride On Flash Bus Service—The Orange Route will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule. The Blue Route (typically, weekday only) will not be in service.
• Ride On extRa (Route 101) and Flex - Will not operate
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Closed.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• MARC Train—No service on all three lines on Nov. 28. The Penn Line will operate on a Saturday schedule on Friday, Nov. 29. There will be no service on the Brunswick and Camden lines on Nov. 29.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a “Reduced Saturday Schedule,” with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday schedule. Find more information at https://www.wmata.com/schedules/index.cfm.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free on Thanksgiving Day. Charges and enforcement resume on Nov. 29.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Thursday, Nov. 28. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, Nov. 30.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Recreation Centers: Closed on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29.
• Aquatic Centers—Closed Nov. 28. Open Nov. 29
• Senior Centers—Closed on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.

Additional information for Montgomery Parks:

• The Open Parkways program will be extended for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. During this time, parkways are open to pedestrians and bicyclists and closed to motor vehicles. Impacted roads include Beach Drive between Knowles Avenue and Cedar Lane (2.2 miles), which will be closed to vehicles from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, through 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, and Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Avenue and Piney Branch Road and between Forest Glen Road and University Boulevard West. It will be closed to vehicles from 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, through 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1.
• Open on Nov. 28: Parks, trails, gardens, nature center trails and outdoor nature play areas, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts.
• Open on Nov. 28: The inline hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreation Park and street hockey/futsal rink at Dewey Local Park may be permitted or are available on first-come, first-serve (if not reserved).
• Open on Nov. 28—Picnic shelters and campfire rings—available for rental at several locations.
• Open on Nov. 28—Little Bennett campground.
• Open on Nov. 28—Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena
• Open on Nov. 28—South Germantown Driving Range
• Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton—Closed Nov. 25-28.
• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits office—Closed.
• Montgomery Parks customer service office—Closed.
• Brookside Gardens Visitor Center and Conservatory—Closed Nov. 28-29.

Holiday Schedule for Veterans Day on Monday, Nov. 11

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Veterans Day on Monday, Nov. 11:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed Sunday, Nov. 10, and Monday, Nov. 11.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open normal hours, from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On Bus Service—Will operate on a Holiday schedule. View route schedules here.
• Ride On extRa, extRa Pink, extRa Lime and Flex bus services—Will operate on a Holiday schedule.
• Ride On Flash Bus Service—The Orange Route will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule. The Blue Route (typically, weekday only) will not be in service.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• MARC Train—Will operate on "R" schedule on all three lines. Penn Line trains 455 (8:45 p.m. departure from Penn Station) and 454 (10:05 p.m. departure from Washington) will operate. Brunswick Line will be the R, not the R+ schedule. EPTA connecting bus service to West Virginia stations will be available from Train 875 at Brunswick.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Saturday schedule with trains running from 5 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Saturday Supplemental schedule. Find more information at https://www.wmata.com/schedules/index.cfm.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Monday, Nov. 11. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, Nov. 16.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Recreation and Aquatic Centers—Open.
• Senior Centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.

Additional information for Montgomery Parks:

• Open Parkways program will operate under its Fall/Winter schedule. Portions of Sligo Creek Parkway and Beach Drive between Knowles Avenue and Cedar Lane will be open to pedestrians and cyclists from 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 8, through 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11. During this time, the parkways are closed to motor vehicles.
• Open on Nov. 11: Parks, trails, gardens, nature center trails and outdoor nature play areas, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts. 
• Open on Nov. 11: The inline hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreation Park and street hockey/futsal rink at Dewey Local Park may be permitted or are available on first-come, first-serve (if not reserved).
• Open on Nov. 11: Picnic shelters and campfire rings—available for rental at several locations.
• Open on Nov. 11; Little Bennett campground.
• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits office—Closed.
• Montgomery Parks customer service office—Closed.
• Brookside Gardens—Closed.

Annual Thanksgiving Parade on Saturday, Nov. 16, in Silver Spring Has Openings for Additional Participants

Montgomery County is seeking colorful performing units and creative groups to march in the annual Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, which will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at noon on Saturday, Nov. 16, in Silver Spring. This event is the only Thanksgiving parade in the Washington metropolitan area.

Application submissions to join the parade are due at 11:59 on Tuesday, Oct. 1. Participation is free. The application and additional information about the parade are available here. The parade will take place rain or shine.

“The Thanksgiving Parade in Silver Spring is a long-standing Montgomery County tradition that brings together residents from across our community to celebrate the holiday season and our diversity,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “Whether you are a performer, an artist or part of a creative group, this is your opportunity to showcase your talents to thousands of spectators. I encourage everyone to consider participating and help make this year’s parade the most memorable yet.”

The parade traditionally kicks off the holiday season in the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District. The procession begins at Ellsworth Drive and Fenton Street, moves south on Georgia Avenue, and concludes at the intersection of Silver Spring Avenue and Georgia Avenue. Thousands of spectators attend each year.

Parade highlights include giant inflatable turkeys and penguins, sparkling floats, marching bands, lively dance troupes and Santa and his elves.

Thanksgiving or holiday-themed units are encouraged to apply, as well as marching bands, multicultural groups, majorettes and baton twirlers, artists, clowns, dance and gymnastic troupes, floats, sports teams, costumed characters, beauty queens, classic car clubs and other creative displays.

Any chance of running a mention of our Speak Up, Save a Life video contest which is now open and accepting entries?

Holiday Schedule for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 2

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 2:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries—Closed on Sunday, Sept. 1, and Monday, Sept. 2.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On Bus Service—Will operate on a Sunday schedule. View route schedules here.
• Ride On extRa and Flex bus services—Will not be in service.
• Ride On Flash Bus Service—The Orange Route will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule. The Blue Route (typically, weekday only) will not be in service.
• MARC Train—No trains operating.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Sunday Holiday schedule with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday schedule.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Monday, Sept. 2. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, Sept. 7.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Outdoor Pools—Open.
• Recreation, Senior and Indoor Aquatic Centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.

Additional information for Montgomery Parks facilities:

Open Parkways: The Open Parkways program will be extended during the Labor Day holiday weekend. During this time, parkways will be open to pedestrians and bicyclists and closed to motor vehicles. Beach Drive between Knowles Avenue and Cedar Lane (2.2 miles) will be open for pedestrians and bicyclists from 9 a.m., Friday, Aug. 30, until 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 2; Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Ave. and Piney Branch Road and between Forest Glen Road and University Boulevard West will be open from 9 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 30, until 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 2.

Additional facilities open Labor Day weekend :

• Parks, trails, gardens, nature center trails and outdoor nature play areas, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations, and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts* are open daily, sunrise to sunset. (*Select outdoor courts are available for rental.)
• The in-line hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreational Park and street hockey/futsal rink at Dewey Local Park may be reserved, or are available first-come, first served, if not reserved.
• Picnic shelters and campfire rings are available for rental at several locations.  
• Wheaton Indoor Tennis
• South Germantown Driving Range
• Little Bennett Campground  
• Cabin John Miniature Train (9:30 a.m.‒4:30 p.m.) and Wheaton Miniature Train and Carousel (9:30 a.m‒4:30 p.m.)
• Brookside Gardens grounds open daily sunrise to sunset, Visitor Center open daily 9 a.m.‒5 p.m., Conservatory open daily 10 a.m.‒5 p.m.
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, noon‒4 p.m. (park grounds open sunrise to sunset).
• Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park Museum and Visitor Center: Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.‒4 p.m., Sunday, noon‒4 p.m.; Manor House guided tours: Saturday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. (park grounds and trails open sunrise to sunset).

The following facilities will be closed on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 2: 

• Montgomery Parks Headquarters and Permits Offices.
• Montgomery Parks Customer Service Office.
• Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena (closed Sunday, Aug. 31‒Monday, Sept. 1).
• Wheaton Indoor Tennis.
•  Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center (closed Aug. 26­‒30 for maintenance).
• Indoor nature facilities - Brookside Nature Center, Locust Grove Nature Center, Black Hill Discovery Center. Trails and outdoor nature play areas remain open sunrise to sunset.
• NOTE: Meadowside Nature Center is undergoing building and meadow renovations. However, outdoor programs are continuing during the project. Trails and nature play areas remain open from sunrise to sunset.

Free Fireworks Shows in Germantown on Thursday, July 4, and Kensington on Saturday, July 6, Will Lead Celebration of Independence Day in Montgomery County

Free fireworks shows in Germantown on Thursday, July 4, and Kensington on Saturday, July 6, will lead the celebration of Independence Day in Montgomery County. Each fireworks display will be preceded by events that include music and activities.

"Montgomery County is pleased to continue its yearly Independence Day celebrations,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “These events are more than just fireworks; they are a chance for our community to come together, celebrate our shared values, and appreciate the freedoms we enjoy. I encourage everyone to join us for an evening of fun, music and spectacular fireworks. Let's ensure that we celebrate safely and make this Fourth of July memorable for all."

The Independence Day celebrations will take place at the following locations:

• Thursday, July 4. 7 p.m.: Germantown Glory at South Germantown Recreational Park, 18041 Central Park Circle in Germantown (Boyds)
• Saturday, July 6. 6 p.m.: Mid-County Sparkles at Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Mill Road, Kensington

Germantown Glory will kick off at 7 p.m. on July 4, with a concert by Central City Orchestra. On-site parking is available.

Mid-County Sparkles will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, with concerts by Joe Falero and Downtown Sound. The only parking available on-site will be for individuals with disabilities. Free parking and shuttle service will be provided starting at 5:30 p.m., from Westfield Wheaton, located at 11160 Veirs Mill Road. Event goers who park at Westfield Wheaton prior to 5:30 p.m. may be subject to towing by the property owner. Follow the directional signs for event parking and shuttles.

The fireworks displays at both celebrations will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m. The timing of the fireworks may change due to weather conditions. Lawn chairs, blankets and coolers are welcome at both events. There will be food vendors at both locations. Alcoholic beverages and pets are not permitted.

Sign language interpreter services and other auxiliary aids or services will be provided upon request with as much notice as possible, preferably at least three business days before the event. To request special accommodations, contact 240-777-6840 or email rec.inclusion@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Maryland Soccerplex, Montgomery Parks and Westfield Wheaton are sponsors of this year’s events.

For more information, call MC311 at 311 or 240-777-0311 or visit the Montgomery County Recreation website.

Holiday Schedule for Independence Day on Thursday, July 4

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Independence Day on Thursday, July 4.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Independence Day
on Thursday, July 4:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On Bus Service—Will operate on a Saturday schedule. View route schedules here.
• Ride On extRa and Flex bus services—Will not be in service.
• Ride On Flash Bus Service—The Orange Route will operate on a Weekend/Holiday schedule. The Blue Route (typically, weekday only) will not be in service.
• MARC Train—Will operate on Saturday schedule on the Penn Line only. No service on Brunswick or Camden lines.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Closed.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Sunday Holiday schedule with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday schedule.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Thursday, July 4. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, July 6.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Outdoor Pools— Open.
• Recreation, Senior and Indoor Aquatic Centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.

Additional information for Montgomery Parks facilities:

• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits offices—Closed.
• Montgomery Parks customer service office—Closed.
• BMX Pump Track at South Germantown Recreational Park—Closed.
• Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena—Closed.
• Wheaton Indoor Tennis and Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center—Closed.
• Indoor nature facilities—Closed. (Trails and nature play areas for all nature centers remain open from sunrise to sunset).

Open Parkways schedule: The Open Parkways program will be extended during the July 4 holiday weekend. During this time, parkways are open to pedestrians and bicyclists and closed to motor vehicles. Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Avenue and Piney Branch Road and between Forest Glen Road and University Boulevard West will be closed to motor vehicles from 9 a.m. Thursday, July 4, until 6 p.m. Sunday, July 7. Beach Drive Knowles Avenue and Cedar Lane (2.2 miles) will be closed to motor vehicles from 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 4, until 6 p.m. on Sunday July 7.

Holiday Schedule for Juneteenth on Wednesday, June 19

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Juneteenth on Wednesday, June 19.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Juneteenth on Wednesday, June 19:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On, Ride On Flex and Ride On extRa—Will operate on holiday schedule.
• Flash—Will operate on holiday schedule for the Orange Route. The Blue Route will not be in service.
• MARC Train—R" schedule on all three lines. Penn Line Trains 455 (8:45 p.m. departure from Penn Station) and 454 (10:05 p.m. departure from Washington) will operate. Brunswick Line will be the “R,” not the “R+” schedule. EPTA connecting bus service to West Virginia stations will be available from Train 875 at Brunswick.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Saturday Holiday schedule with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Saturday Supplemental schedule.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Wednesday, June 19. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, June 22.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Outdoor Pools— Open.
• Recreation, Senior and Indoor Aquatic Centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.

Additional information for Montgomery Parks facilities:

• Montgomery Parks Headquarters and Permits Offices—Closed.
• Montgomery Parks Customer Service Office—Closed.
• All camps and classes—Not scheduled.
• Brookside Nature Center--Closed.

 

Holiday Schedule for Memorial Day on Monday, May 27

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 27.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Memorial Day on Monday, May 27:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed Sunday, May 26, and Monday, May 27
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On—Will operate on Sunday schedule.
• Ride On Flex and Ride On extRa – Not in Service
• Flash—will operate on the Weekends and Holidays schedule for the Orange Route. The Blue Route (normally weekday only) will not be in service.
• MARC Train—No service.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Sunday Holiday schedule with trains running from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday service schedule.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Monday, May 27. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, June 1.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Outdoor pools— Open.
• Community Recreation, aquatic and senior centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org. 

  Additional information for Montgomery Parks facilities: 

  • Montgomery Parks Headquarters and Permits Offices—Closed. 
  • Montgomery Parks Customer Service Office—Closed.
  • Pauline Betz Addie  and Wheaton Indoor Tennis Centers--Closed, (Wheaton is also closed Saturday and Sunday, May 25­‒26).
  • Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena--Closed. (Ice rinks also closed Saturday and Sunday, May 25­‒26).
  • Indoor nature facilities—Brookside Nature Center, Locust Grove Nature Center, Black Discovery Center—Closed. (Trails and outdoor nature play areas remain open sunrise to sunset.)
  • Meadowside Nature Center is undergoing building and meadow renovations. However, outdoor programs are continuing during the project. Trails and nature play areas remain open from sunrise to sunset.

Holiday Schedule for Presidents’ Day on Monday, Feb 19

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for Presidents’ Day on Monday, Feb. 19.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Presidents’ Day on Monday, Feb. 19:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed Sunday, Feb.18, and Monday, Feb.19.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On, Ride On Flex and Ride On extRa—Will operate on Holiday schedule.
• Flash—will operate on Holiday schedule for the Orange Route. The Blue Route will not be in service.
• MARC Train—Will operate on "R" schedule on all three lines. Penn Line Trains 453 (9:35 p.m. departure from Penn Station) and 452 (10:55 p.m. departure from Washington) will operate. Brunswick Line will be the R, not the R+ schedule. EPTA connecting bus service to West Virginia stations will be available from Train 875 at Brunswick.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on a Saturday Holiday schedule with trains running from 5 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate with Saturday Supplemental service.
• Public parking garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Monday, Feb. 19. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, Feb. 24.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Aquatic Centers— Open.
• Community Recreation and Senior Centers—Closed.
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.  

The following facilities will be closed on Monday, Feb. 19:

• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits offices. 
• Montgomery Parks public information and customer service office.
• All Montgomery Parks nature centers (ground and trails open daily, sunrise to sunset).

Holiday Schedule for Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday on Monday, Jan. 15

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will have holiday schedule and program changes for the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday on Monday, Jan. 15.

Schedule changes for the holiday celebrating Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday on Monday, Jan. 15:

• County offices—Closed.
• MC 311— Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries— Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Department of Permitting Services—Closed.
• Ride On will operate on its Holiday Schedule.
• Ride On, Ride On Flex and Ride On extRa—Will operate on Holiday schedules.
• Flash—Will operate on its Holiday schedule for the Orange Route. The Blue Route will not be in service.
• MARC Train—Will operate on its "R" schedule on all three lines. Penn Line Trains 453 (will have 9:35 p.m. departure from Penn Station) and 452 (will have 10:55 p.m. departure from Washington). Brunswick Line will be the R, not the R+ schedule. EPTA connecting bus service to West Virginia stations will be available from Train 875 at Brunswick.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS mobile commuter store—Closed.
• Metrorail—See https://www.wmata.com/schedules/timetables/. Will operate on a Saturday holiday schedule with modified service on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines.
• Metrobus—Will operate with Saturday Supplemental service.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections—No collections on Monday, Jan. 15. Collections for the remainder of the week will slide one day, with the final collections on Saturday, Jan. 20.
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center— Entire facility is closed.
• Aquatic Centers— Open
• Community Recreation and Senior Centers—Closed
• For Montgomery Parks information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.  

Additional information for Montgomery Parks facilities and programs:

• The Open Parkways program will be extended during the MLK Day holiday. During this time, parkways are open to pedestrians and bicyclists and closed to motor vehicles. This will impact: Beach Drive between Connecticut and Knowles Avenue (2.9 miles) from 7 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13, until 4 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 15; Sligo Creek Parkway between Old Carroll Avenue and Piney Branch Road and between Forest Glen Road and University Boulevard West from 9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 12, until 4 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 15.

Activities available during the MLK Day holiday weekend will include:

• Parks, trails, gardens, nature centers, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations, and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts* are open daily, sunrise to sunset. (*Select outdoor courts are available for rental.).
• The inline hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreational Park and street hockey/futsal rink at Dewey Local Park may be permitted, or are available first come, first served, if not reserved.
• Campfire rings are available for rental at several locations.
• Ice Skating at Cabin John Ice Rink or Wheaton Ice Arena
• Little Bennett Campground   
• Brookside Gardens grounds open daily sunrise–4 p.m., Visitor Center open daily 9 a.m.­–4 p.m., Conservatory open daily 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Sunday noon–4 p.m., Special hours on MLK Day, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park special operating hours on MLK Day.

The following facilities will be closed on Monday, Jan. 15:

• Montgomery Parks headquarters and permits offices. 
• Montgomery Parks public information and customer service office.
• All Montgomery Parks nature centers (ground and trails open daily, sunrise to sunset).