From rockets’ red glare to Revolutionary flair, Virginia brings the boom to the Fourth of July. With parades, pageants, pomp, and plenty of fireworks, the Commonwealth cranks up both the colonial charm and the modern-day merrymaking for America’s birthday bash.
It’s never too early to start planning your star-spangled fun—here are some Virginia Fourth of July events to get you going.
An American Celebration, Mount Vernon
Celebrate the nation’s early days at the first president’s home. MountVernon.org
Downtown Wytheville 4th of July Celebration & Street Festival, Wytheville
Wythe County’s largest single-day event draws over 10,000 visitors for a festive day of fireworks, live performances, and a crowd-pleasing water display from the local fire department. DowntownWytheville.com
Craig County Independence Day Parade, New Castle
Marvel at floats, vintage cars, and hometown pride as the parade winds through Craig County Fairgrounds. Then join the fun with a watermelon eating contest, Best Beard contest, and Most Patriotic Bonnet contest. VisitRoanokeVa.com
Fabulous Fourth at Ferry Farm, Fredericksburg
George Washington’s boyhood home comes alive with a Washington reenactor, archaeological talks, patriotic tunes, and Colonial-era games. Kenmore.org
41st Annual Independence Day 5K, Virginia Beach
This beloved race benefits the local YMCA while bringing the community together. YMCASHR.com
Happy Birthday America, Staunton
Gypsy Hill Park lights up with patriotism, country music, pageants, and parades. HappyBirthdayAmerica.org (July 3–4)
Independence Day Bell Ringing, Isle of Wight County
Patriots gather to ring the Isle of Wight County Courthouse’s lofty bell 13 times in honor of the original colonies. GenuineSmithfieldVa.com
Independence Day at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill, Brookneal
Celebrate at the home of Virginia’s first governor with fireworks and Revolutionary excitement. RedHill.org
July 4th Celebration, South Boston
Downtown’s Constitution Square fills with patriotic spirit on the Fourth of July, kicking off with the National Anthem at 6 p.m. and ending in a 9 p.m. fireworks finale. DowntownSoBo.com
Liberty Celebration, Yorktown
At the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, experience the 249th anniversary of Independence with artillery firings, a gallery exhibit, and their new film Liberty Fever. JYFMuseums.org
Want more? Check out our June 2025 issue.
