Introduction
Virginia is home to some of the most exciting and historic 4th of July celebrations in the country. As one of the original thirteen colonies, the state offers a unique blend of patriotic events, from large-scale fireworks displays to community parades and cultural festivals. Whether you’re looking for a lively waterfront celebration, a historical reenactment, or a family-friendly fair, Virginia has something for everyone.
In this guide, we highlight the best 4th of July events in Virginia, complete with fireworks, concerts, parades, and more.
1. 42nd Annual 4th of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks – Norfolk
Norfolk’s Great American Picnic & Fireworks at Town Point Park is one of the most popular Independence Day celebrations in Virginia. Set along the scenic Downtown Norfolk Waterfront, this event offers a perfect mix of entertainment, food, and breathtaking fireworks over the Elizabeth River.
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Fireworks Start: 9:30 PM
- Location: Town Point Park, Norfolk, VA
- Admission: Free
- What to Expect:
- Live music performances
- All-American picnic fare, including hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecue, and seafood
- Military brass band performances
- Spectacular waterfront fireworks show
Arrive early to grab a good viewing spot along the riverfront. This event is perfect for families and groups looking for a classic Independence Day celebration.
2. Independence Day Celebration in Leesburg
Leesburg hosts a full day of patriotic festivities, beginning with a lively parade through the Historic District and ending with an evening fireworks show at Ida Lee Park.
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Parade Start Time: Morning (exact time to be confirmed)
- Fireworks Location: Ida Lee Park, Leesburg, VA
- Activities Include:
- A traditional Independence Day parade featuring community groups, bands, and floats
- Family-friendly activities, games, and food vendors
- Live music performances
- A grand fireworks finale
For a more relaxed 4th of July experience with small-town charm, Leesburg is a fantastic choice.
3. Dale City Independence Day Parade
One of the largest 4th of July parades in Virginia, the Dale City Independence Day Parade is an annual tradition featuring vibrant performances, themed floats, and a patriotic display of local organizations.
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Parade Route:
- Starts at Mapledale Avenue and Queensdale Drive (Mapledale Plaza)
- Ends at Center Plaza at Gemini Way (near Minnieville Road)
- Event Highlights:
- Marching bands, cheerleading squads, and community groups
- Police cars, fire trucks, motorcycles, and historic vehicles
- Veterans and military units in full display
This parade is a must-see for those who enjoy a strong sense of community and patriotism. Arriving early ensures a great viewing spot along the route.
4. Salem Fair & 4th of July Fireworks
The Salem Fair is Virginia’s largest free fair and coincides with Independence Day, offering a mix of carnival rides, live entertainment, and a grand fireworks show.
- Dates: Late June – Early July
- Location: Salem Civic Center, Salem, VA
- Admission: Free entry (rides and food available for purchase)
- What’s Included:
- Carnival rides and attractions
- Games and family-friendly activities
- Petting zoo and farm exhibits
- Live music performances
- Fireworks on the night of July 4th
For those who love amusement parks and county fairs, Salem Fair is an ideal 4th of July destination.
5. Virginia Beach 4th of July Fireworks & Festivities
Virginia Beach offers a beachfront celebration featuring live entertainment, oceanfront activities, and a stunning fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean.
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Fireworks Start: 9:30 PM
- Location: Virginia Beach Boardwalk
- Activities Include:
- Live music performances on the beach
- Family-friendly games and activities
- Scenic views of the fireworks from the sand or boardwalk
For a beachside 4th of July experience, Virginia Beach provides one of the best celebrations in the state.
6. Independence Day at Great Meadow – The Plains, VA
Great Meadow, a 380-acre event venue in The Plains, Virginia, hosts an Independence Day celebration featuring family activities, live entertainment, and fireworks.
- Date: July 4, 2025
- Location: Great Meadow, The Plains, VA
- Activities:
- Horse jumping and polo demonstrations
- Family-friendly games and activities
- Live music and performances
- Fireworks finale
This is a great alternative for those looking to celebrate in a scenic countryside setting.
7. DC Fireworks from Northern Virginia
For those who want to experience the National Mall Fireworks from a quieter setting, several locations in Northern Virginia offer excellent vantage points:
- Gravelly Point Park (Arlington, VA) – A popular waterfront location for viewing DC’s fireworks over the Potomac River.
- Iwo Jima Memorial (Arlington, VA) – Provides an unobstructed view of the National Mall fireworks.
- Mount Vernon Trail (Alexandria, VA) – Offers multiple scenic spots to watch the fireworks while enjoying a riverside atmosphere.
These spots allow visitors to enjoy a spectacular view of the nation’s capital celebrations without dealing with the large crowds.
Conclusion
Virginia offers a diverse range of 4th of July celebrations, from historical parades and cultural festivals to large-scale fireworks displays. Whether you prefer a bustling city event, a peaceful countryside gathering, or a beachfront celebration, there is an Independence Day experience for everyone in the Commonwealth.
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