Five Things You Need to Know: July 7

Five things to know for Thursday:

1. The weather will be hot and muggy again today, with increasing chances of rain throughout the day. The forecast calls for a partly sunny day with showers possible in the morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Rain chances are 50 percent, with storms likely to move in by evening. Highs will be in the lower 90s.

2. This day in history: Construction of the Hoover Dam began on this date in 1930. One of the largest man-made structures in the world, the work of 21,000 men completed the dam in just five years.

3. Mother nature delayed Takoma Park's Fourth-of-July fireworks show for a day, but it was just as spectular the day after. If you missed it, not to worry--check out Patch's photos of the fireworks lighting up the night sky.

4. Make plans to start your weekend early--tonight's free summer concert is next door in Silver Spring, featuring the Latin/rock sounds of Patrick Alban and Noche Latina. The music starts at 7:00 on Veteran's Plaza.

5. The holiday may be over, but the festivities continue today and throughout the weekend at the Smithsonian's 45th Annual Folklife Festival on the National Mall. The year's fest celebrates Colombian culture, Rhythm and Blues music and the Peace Corps. Head down to enjoy the free activities and evening performances for the entire family.

Enjoy your day!