The Best Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July in Virginia

Fireworks, BBQ’s, hot dogs, parades… These have been constant since America’s founding in 1776! Of course, it took until 1941 for congress to declare the date a national holiday, but we sure know how to celebrate! If you look forward to wearing red, white, and blue all year, there’s no better place than patriotic Virginia to celebrate our wonderful country on July 4th! At home or close by, there are many ways to celebrate!  

People throwing a party.

First, you can’t beat a good old fashioned poolside party with friends and neighbors, or a cookout with family in your courtyard! Our homeowners and communities know how to throw a 4th of July party, that’s for sure! More food than you can imagine, music, decorations, and who knows, maybe some fireworks in the sky! All just steps away from your home right within your community.

If you are ready to venture out and be adventuresome, there is a multitude of events that you can attend that are close by or a short drive. You have options! This summer, get ready for the best festivals, carnivals, concerts, and fireworks around. Here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate in Richmond, Fredericksburg,Smithfield, Chesterfield, Hanover County, and the Nation’s capital! Grab the grandkids and take off!   

Spotsylvania Stars and Stripes Spectacular

On July 2nd, head to the Spotsylvania Courthouse to enjoy live music, delicious food, and fireworks with the whole family! With four concert stages, incredible food and business vendors, historic building tours, children’s rides, and so much more, you and your family will be entertained all day long.  

Marching band.

Fourth in Fredericksburg 

Scenic and charming Fredericksburg is hosting an all-day event on the 4th! A five-mile run kicks off the day followed by an incredible parade. Your grandkids will enjoy activities just for them, including face painting, a moon bound, a photo booth, and more. Live music, historic tours, and fireworks complete this fun festival!  

Heritage Park Independence Day Celebration Fireworks Show

Get the party started a day early with this fun patriotic event on July 3rd near Smithfield! Bring the family and friends for face painting, food, free concerts, and of course the fireworks to top the night off. 

Chesterfield County Fairgrounds

On the 4th starting at 5 PM, revel in the magic of a spectacular fireworks display at dark! At the scenic Chesterfield County Fairgrounds, you and your family will enjoy children’s activities, food vendors, and unique entertainment. Make sure to bring comfortable lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the coolest fireworks you’ve ever seen!  

Star Spangled Celebration

On July 4th, bring your grandkids to the Star Spangled Celebration at Kings Dominion! This incredible theme park will be completely filled with red, white, and blue all weekend to get you into the spirit! Enjoy amazing performances from local military bands, magical fireworks, and of course, your favorite rides. Active and retired military, as well as veterans with honorable or medical discharge are admitted for free!  

Fourth of July Parade.

Ashland Celebration

Over 100 years old, this incredible celebration speaks to why Ashland is a “great small town to live in.” Around 20,000 visitors will enjoy old-fashioned fun with a walking parade, live music, delicious food, lawn games, a patriotic pet contest, and of course, an apple pie contest (as American as it gets!) 

Celebrations in D.C.

Both Fredericksburg and Richmond offer a close proximity to our nation’s capital, where the celebrations always reach new heights! From the annual National Independence Day Parade, to stunning fireworks along the D.C. skyline and memorials, to a Potomac River Cruise, you can take your pick of memorable, one-of-a-kind activities in our country’s capital.   

No matter what your plans are, enjoy your family and friends and a relaxing day! Happy Birthday America!!!