July 4 in Virginia: Your guide to the best fireworks
Enjoy a dazzling fireworks display by attending one of these 10 Fourth of July celebrations in Virginia.
As summer nights grow warmer and longer and the Fourth of July approaches, Virginians eagerly anticipate the displays of fireworks that light up the skies across the commonwealth. There’s something undeniably magical about watching the vibrant bursts of color illuminate the night, the echoes of their explosions resonating with the collective oohs and aahs of spectators.
From historic small towns to waterfront cities, Virginia offers a host of fantastic fireworks displays that promise to make your Fourth of July unforgettable. Here are 10 of the most dazzling displays:
Best Fireworks in Northern Virginia
Middletown July 4th Celebration
Location: Middletown
Date: Wednesday, July 3 at dusk
Cost: Free
The Middletown July 4th Celebration at Middletown Park will offer two days full of patriotic activities, including a vibrant fireworks display at dusk on July 3. Prior to the fireworks (and continuing the next day), food and craft vendors, kids’ games, a softball tournament, a cornhole tournament, and a veterans recognition will take place, with the festivities starting at 8 a.m. Live music from Robbie Limon and The Reflex will keep the mood festive. The parade will take place at 5 p.m. on July 4.
An American Celebration
Location: Mount Vernon
Date: Thursday, July 4 at 1 p.m.
Cost: $13 for ages 6-11 or $26 for ages 12+
It’s hard to think of a better place to celebrate the nation’s founding than at the home of George Washington, the first president. Unlike some fireworks displays, the one at Mount Vernon takes place during the day over the Potomac River. Prior to and after the display, a range of patriotic events will take place on the grounds, including a performance by the National Concert Band.
Best Fireworks in Coastal Virginia
Chincoteague Volunteer Fireman’s Carnival
Location: Chincoteague Island
Date: Thursday, July 4 at 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
While most people probably imagine the Annual Chincoteague Pony Swim and Auction when they think of Chincoteague Island, they shouldn’t overlook the Chincoteague Volunteer Fireman’s Carnival, which happens at the same time. This year’s festival will include food, games, live entertainment, and attractions. Come prepared to be dazzled by the fireworks at 10 p.m.
2024 Independence Day Celebration
Location: Franklin
Date: Wednesday, July 3 at 9:15 p.m.
Cost: Free
Drop by downtown Franklin for an evening of fun, festivities, and fireworks. The celebration will start with a cruise-in at 4 p.m., followed by music from Barrett’s Landing and food trucks. Free hotdogs and watermelon will be provided starting a 6:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a fireworks show.
41st Annual 4th of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks
Location: Norfolk
Date: Thursday, July 4 at 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
What’s more all-American than a picnic and fireworks display? The 41st Annual 4th of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks celebration will once again return to Town Point Park along the waterfront in Downtown Norfolk this year. The picnic will feature classic American fare, like hotdogs, hamburgers, barbeque, and seafood. Before the fireworks display over the Elizabeth River, military brass bands will entertain attendees with a selection of patriotic tunes.
Yorktown Independence Day Celebration
Location: Yorktown
Date: Thursday, July 4 at 9:15 p.m.
Cost: Free
There’s no denying that July 4 is one of the most exciting times of the year in Yorktown because of the Yorktown Independence Day Celebration. The event allows the community to gather for an action-packed day of patriotic fun. Festivities start at 8 a.m. with an 8K/5K run/walk. Attendees will keep busy throughout the day with the parade, family-friendly games and activities, and music. The day will conclude at 9:15 with a fireworks display over the York River.
Best Fireworks in Central Virginia
Stars & Spurs Festival
Location: Arrington
Date: Thursday, July 4 at 8:30 p.m.
Cost: $10 for children 10 and under or $20 for ages 11 and up
Oak Ridge Farm knows how to celebrate the nation’s independence in style with the Stars & Spurs Festival. The event seamlessly ties together the stars that pop in a fireworks display with the spurs that jangle on boots that are tapping to the rhythm of country music. The festival will start with a parade at 10 a.m. Music, games, and vendors will follow leading up to the main event, the fireworks display that will take place at 8:30 p.m.
Best Fireworks in Southside Virginia
Danville Celebrates Fourth of July
Location: Danville
Date: Thursday, July 4 at dusk
Cost: Free
Danville plans to go all out on July 4, with music, activities, and fireworks. Danville Celebrates Fourth of July will kick off at 6 p.m. at the Carrington Pavilion. Activities will include a foam party, inflatables, vendors, and a magician. Prior to the fireworks at dusk, the mayor will speak and Seven Til Sunrise will perform.
Best Fireworks in Southwest Virginia
Salem Fair
Location: Salem
Date: Thursday, July 4 at 9:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Stop by the Salem Fair, the largest fair in the commonwealth, around 4 p.m. to enjoy some rides and fair food, like funnel cakes and cotton candy, before taking in the dazzling fireworks display at night.
Independence Day Celebration with Parade, Concert, & Fireworks
Location: Hillsville
Date: Thursday, July 4 at dusk
Cost: Free
The Independence Day Celebration with Parade, Concert, & Fireworks is one of the biggest fireworks shows in the area. Get in the patriotic spirit prior to the fireworks by viewing the parade at 4 p.m. through the historic downtown area. Food, games, and family-friendly fun will also be part of the celebration. Live music will be provided by the ACE Party Band.
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