Independence Day is only a week away, so it’s time to scout out the best spots for your full fireworks enjoyment! The festivity of the Fourth of July is one of my favorite things about summertime – celebrating patriotic pride on a day off with friends and waiting for the sun to set and the fireworks extravaganza to begin is quintessentially American.
From a riverfront show at Rocketts Landing to the annual outdoor concert at Dogwood Dell, Richmond’s Fourth of July skies are brightly lit with spectacular light shows. If you’re inclined to venture out of town, the Commonwealth’s special role in early America affords unique opportunities to combine our historical tapestry with the flair of fireworks. Whether you’re in Colonial Williamsburg for an incredible pyrotechnic show set to patriotic music, or in Norfolk for the historic harborside Great American Picnic, there are truly spectacular fireworks in sight.
Check out a few of these links to help plan your own festive Fourth:
Rocketts Red Glare | Richmond: Free and family-friendly, the event at Rocketts features food trucks, craft beer, and local vendors. A professional beach volleyball tournament precedes the fireworks show, so there’s plenty to see and enjoy as you await the fireworks.
Dogwood Dell | Richmond: Be sure to arrive early for free seats in the outdoor amphitheater. A free performance by the Richmond Concert Jazz Band precedes fireworks.
Happy Birthday, America! | Charlottesville: Carter Mountain Orchard hosts a free, family-oriented event that includes old-fashioned activities like the water balloon toss and watermelon seed spitting contest. From the orchard’s Blue Ridge perch, you’ll have the perfect view of Charlottesville’s fireworks displays.
Fourth of July Fireworks | Colonial Williamsburg: Each burst of radiant colors is set to a patriotic musical score of American classics. The setting of Colonial Williamsburg creates a special vibe for commemorating America’s Independence Day.
Great American Picnic | Norfolk: Work up an appetite for classic cook out fare like hot dogs, hamburgers, and barbecue. The Great American Picnic draws the community together before fireworks light up the harbor sky.
And if you want a taste of small-town Americana, Reedville, Virginia, has its day-long 4th of July celebration starting with the Firecracker 5k Run, activities including a pie eating contest, an old-time parade in the afternoon, and fireworks over Cockrells Creek at dusk.
For a look at nationwide events, click here to check out a special feature from Travel + Leisure.