Patriotic passions are set to ignite this Fourth of July weekend in Virginia. Fun-seekers, beach lovers and history addicts will find more than 100 places to ooh and ahh at fireworks, chill out with classic family fun and soak up sunshine, sand, music and more at unique special events – all listed on Virginia.org, the official tourism Web site of Virginia.
Ooh and Ahh
Fireworks are a must for the Fourth, and Virginia does fireworks with major flair. A new feature on Virginia.org is a comprehensive list of fireworks spectaculars in Virginia, searchable by city or zip code, to make holiday weekend planning even easier for visitors and Virginians.
Check out dazzling displays across the state, such as Virginia Beach’s Stars & Stripes Explosion on July 4. Spend a fun-filled day along the oceanfront with live music, surf and sand castles and top it off with a dramatic fireworks display over the ocean.
Manassas boasts the largest fireworks show in Northern Virginia at Celebrate America on July 4. Bring the lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets and spend the day relaxing with live music and kids’ games before settling in to watch the night sky come alive with color.
Fireworks will illuminate the Elizabeth River on July 4 in Hampton Roads, with spectacular displays in Norfolk at Town Point Center and along the riverfront in historic Olde Towne Portsmouth – for a chance to see two fireworks shows in one night!
Celebrate Independence Day in Independence, Virginia with a colossal fireworks show and festival. This aptly-named town in Southwest Virginia will wow crowds with fireworks at night and country cooking, bluegrass music and cloggers during the day.
Visit www.Virginia.org/July4th for a detailed list of fireworks shows in Virginia.
Historic Family Fun
Virginia played a pivotal role in America’s independence and is an excellent destination to spend fun family time at some of the country’s most influential historical sites.
Celebrate the Fourth of July where the final fight for independence was won at the Yorktown Independence Day Celebration. The family-oriented festival is sure to be a blast with activities including: a 5K run, arts and crafts, parade, classic car show, pony rides, children’s fun center, live entertainment, concessions, a patriotic concert and a spectacular fireworks show.
Historic Mount Vernon will celebrate George Washington’s contribution to America’s freedom with the annual event, An American Celebration. Featuring military reenactments, a musical performance by the National Concert Band of America, a special wreath laying ceremony and more, this event brings history to live for visitors of all ages.
Fourth at the Fort in Hampton is a lively celebration of our nation’s independence held at historic Fort Monroe, the largest stone fort ever built in the U.S. Enjoy live music, children’s games and rides, food and beverages, military exhibits and fireworks.
More Special Events
Let a love of nature take over at the Fireman’s Carnival on Chincoteague Island, July 4-5 at the northern tip of Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Sure there will be fireworks but this small town favorite will have rides and seafood delights. Be sure to visit nearby Assateague Island to see the famous ponies.
Wine and music lovers will dig Red, White & Listen to The Blues on July 4 at Oakencroft Winery near Charlottesville. Taste award-winning wines, tour the winery and enjoy light fare and live blues music – just bring a chair, relax and enjoy.
Take flight on the long holiday weekend at the 12th Annual Hot Air Balloon Rally in Lexington, July 3 – 5. Piloted and tethered hot air balloon rides, live musical entertainment, children’s activities, antique appraisals, classic car show, food and fireworks, make for an unforgettable weekend getaway in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley.
