INDEPENDENCE DAY EVENTS NEWSLETTER
The Revolutionary Rumble
Looking for the perfect way to celebrate America’s birthday? Look no further! Make sure these events are part of your plans.
June 28 – 29
Fairfax County: Fireworks at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Watch a dazzling fireworks show at George Washington’s estate! On June 28 and 29, relax on the east lawn and watch fireworks soar over the Potomac River. Enjoy live musical performances, and attend an evening wreath laying at George Washington’s Tomb.
June 29
Appomattox County: Fire Performers and Fireworks
Come and celebrate Independence Day at the Appomattox County High School, there will be three fire jugglers and a fire breather, followed by the fireworks display at dark.
Smithfield: Independence Day
An 18th century Independence Day style celebration complete with a reading of the Declaration of Independence, musket and cannon firing by militia and the planting of a “Liberty Tree” just as was done at the time.
July 3, 5, 6
Colonial Williamsburg: Lighting of the Cressets
Join us on the historic Duke of Gloucester Street for a fan-favorite Holiday tradition, the Lighting of the Cressets, as we bring our 18th-century streets to life at night with strolling musicians and tidings of good cheer
July 4
Bedford County: Independence Day Celebration
Thomas Jefferson held July 4th as “the only birthday I ever commemorate…” Bring your family and friends out to Poplar Forest, his Bedford County retreat, to celebrate the 248th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in historic style. Enjoy colonial-style entertainment, demonstrations by colonial artisans and craftspeople, archaeological displays, old-fashioned children’s activities, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and more!
Charles City County: Wreath Laying Ceremony
The Williamsburg Chapter, National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will host its 50th Annual Independence Day Wreath Laying Ceremony honoring Benjamin Harrison V who was a Signer of the Declaration of Independence.
Charlotte County: Independence Day at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill
Would you like to experience Independence Day at the final home of Virginia’s first governor? Come spend this July 4th at the “garden spot of the world,” Patrick Henry’s Red Hill! Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to comfortably watch Patrick Henry’s fifth great-grandson give his “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech. Before enjoying a fantastic fireworks display, enjoy face painting for the kids, and tour Patrick Henry’s home and museum.
Charlottesville: Independence Day Concert and Celebration
Would you like to experience Independence Day at the final home of Virginia’s first governor? Come spend this July 4th at the “garden spot of the world,” Patrick Henry’s Red Hill! Bring your lawn chairs or blankets to comfortably watch Patrick Henry’s fifth great-grandson give his “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech. Before enjoying a fantastic fireworks display, enjoy face painting for the kids, and tour Patrick Henry’s home and museum.
Chesapeake: Independence Celebration
Celebrate America’s Independence at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Museum. Our town crier will read the Declaration of Independence. Enjoy crafts, activities, an encampment by the Youth Virginia Regiment, and more! Take family photos choosing your own backdrop with our green screen technology. Bring the entire family for this fun event.
Colonial Williamsburg: Declaration of Independence Reading
Thomas Jefferson begins a day of pageantry, celebration, and reflection.
Colonial Williamsburg: Building Washington’s Army
Calling all brave and well-disposed lovers of liberty! In defense of Independency, recruits of all ages will take part in light military drill with members of the Virginia State Garrison Regiment accompanied by the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums corps on Market Square Green. Both active participants and observers are welcome. A final inspection of recruits will be conducted by Colonel Washington.
Colonial Williamsburg: Goodwin Room Independence Tea
Enjoy a delightful afternoon with your family and friends while indulging in the fine Afternoon Tea at the Williamsburg Inn with an exciting Revolution-inspired menu. Expect handmade scones, tea sandwiches, pastries, and more with a signature tea from the Chef Collaboration with the Tea and Spice Exchange.
Colonial Williamsburg: Social Terrace Independence Day Bash
Join us to celebrate your Independence Day! Family-friendly food, fun, and live music will entertain all, and have you positioned to finish the night with the fireworks!
Colonial Williamsburg: July 4 at Shields Tavern
Join us for refreshing drinks and delicious fair food treats! Treat yourself to street corn, pulled pork fries with cheese, watermelon, and an array of cool beverages to keep you hydrated as you explore all that Colonial Williamsburg has to offer on this special American holiday.
Colonial Williamsburg: July 4 at Greenhow Lumber House
Stop by for an electrifying experience! Delight in refreshing beverages and indulge in tantalizing Fair Food delights. Our menu boasts savory Street Corn, mouthwatering Pulled Pork Fries topped with cheese, and juicy Watermelon, alongside an array of chilled beverages to keep you refreshed throughout the day.
Colonial Williamsburg: July 4 Feast on the McKenzie Lawn
Join the Williamsburg Lodge Culinary Team for a Buffet Feast. Once you are done dining on the lawn, stick around to enjoy great views on the Palace Green or Art Museum Lawn for our Independence Day fireworks display.
Colonial Williamsburg: Traditions Fourth of July Dinner
Join us for a spectacular dinner buffet to celebrate Independence Day at the Williamsburg Lodge.
Colonial Williamsburg: Salute to the States
Set to the pomp and pageantry of the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums, join the Virginia State Garrison Regiment as they present canon salutes to the original 13 states of the Union.
Colonial Williamsburg: Public Auction
Take part in an exciting auction! Bid on selected items from Colonial Williamsburg stores as well as exclusive items not available elsewhere. The assortment changes for each auction. Listen for the auction bell!
Colonial Williamsburg: Lights of Freedom
As the prelude to the thrilling Fourth of July Fireworks display, our holiday programming concludes with a celebration of the words and music of the American Revolution. Highlights include a reading of the Declaration of Independence, American marching music of the Revolution, and a patriotic sing-along culminating in a grand fireworks display above the Governor’s Palace.
Culpeper County: July 4th Ceremony
The Culpeper Minute Men Chapter, NSSAR, will host a ceremony to celebrate July 4th. There will be a visit from George Washington. He will reflect on the Declaration of Independence and his earlier role when, as a seventeen-year-old in 1749, he was Culpeper County’s first surveyor. This event is also in celebration of the 275th anniversary of Culpeper County.
Fairfax County: An American Celebration at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Celebrate our nation’s founding at the home of America’s first president! Watch as people from across the world become U.S. citizens in a moving ceremony, then hear a performance by the National Concert Band and see a daytime fireworks show.
Fairfax County: Reading of the Declaration of Independence
As part of the 250th Anniversary Celebration of Historic Pohick Episcopal Church, the community is invited to a free public reading of the Declaration of Independence in the church by historical re-enactor, the Rev. Dr. Thomas Costa, portraying the Rev. Mr. Massey, the Rector of Pohick Church in 1776. The reading will take place with free docent tours of the colonial church of George Washington and George Mason following the presentation.
Henrico County: Red, White, & Lights
Celebrate the Independence Day holiday with live music, food trucks, and a kids’ zone. The Richmond Symphony is headlining the show with a laser light show finale.
Loudoun County: Reading of the Declaration of Independence
We all know the Declaration of Independence—or do we? The Lovettsville Historical Society continues our tradition of a public reading of the Declaration so all can hear it and ponder its message, its pledge, its inspiration, and how far we yet need to reach out to meet its ideals. Read antiphonally with seven local readers placed around the historic church, there also will be opportunity for audience participation as well. Those attending will have a chance to sign with the original signers a large copy of the Declaration, reasserting our hopes and beliefs, whatever our current shortfall may be.
Middleburg: Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Join us for a reading of the Declaration of Independence by members of our community in the garden of the Middleburg Museum.
Monticello Naturalization Ceremony
Every year, Monticello’s West Portico becomes an outdoor courtroom where dozens of individuals take the Oath of Citizenship to become Americans. Join us as we mark the 248th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence for an entire morning welcoming new citizens to our country, family activities, music, community partners, and more!
Newport News: 4th of July Stars in the Sky
Light up the night! Celebrate Independence Day with great food, live music, festive entertainers, giveaways and a spectacular fireworks display above the James River. This year’s Stars in the Sky will feature musical performances from Good Shot Judy and the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra. Gerome Meminger will also be conducting a live stage painting performance.
Richmond: Liberty or Death Reenactment
Witness Patrick Henry convince his fellow delegates to take up arms against the King!
Richmond: Independence Day at the Virginia State Capitol
This year, Virginia’s Fourth of July celebration promises to be unlike any other. Inspired by John Adams’ vision of a grand festival, the State Capitol lawn will transform into a vibrant hub of activity, bursting with the sights and sounds of Virginia’s diverse communities. Imagine the sights, sounds, and energy of Virginians from all walks of life engaging with what freedom means today through performances of spoken word, dance, and music as a prelude to unifying and inspiring keynote remarks and a very special finale.
Stafford County: Fabulous Fourth at Ferry Farm
This year, Virginia’s Fourth of July celebration promises to be unlike any other. Inspired by John Adams’ vision of a grand festival, the State Capitol lawn will transform into a vibrant hub of activity, bursting with the sights and sounds of Virginia’s diverse communities. Imagine the sights, sounds, and energy of Virginians from all walks of life engaging with what freedom means today through performances of spoken word, dance, and music as a prelude to unifying and inspiring keynote remarks and a very special finale.
Westmoreland County: 4th of July at Stratford Hall
Join us in commemorating the Fourth of July at the historic home of the only two brothers who signed the Declaration of Independence. Immerse yourself in colonial music along with engaging games, creative crafts with The Arts Center of Montross, and face painting.
York County: Independence Day Celebration
Bring your flags and flip flops because the fun begins with a festive parade down Historic Main Street! Evening activities include a bell-ringing ceremony, patriotic concert, and a spectacular fireworks display over the York River. Grab your red, white, and blue gear and come celebrate where America won her independence.
July 6
Colonial Williamsburg: An Evening with the Presidents
The United States was as politically divided in its infancy as it is today. Nation Builders will explore how their presidential administrations navigated party, faction, and the vast differences that challenged America during their times.
Colonial Williamsburg: America Sings!
Enjoy songs of the United States led by musical artist Reginald Fox and guest singers. This program is filled with familiar tunes that speak to what it means to be part of this great country. The music will speak to our hearts, during a time when we employ songs in commemoration of the birth of a nation.
Dinwiddie County: Independence Celebration
Join us for an Independence Celebration as Pamplin Historical Park will offer multiple activities and programs throughout the day. Families will enjoy the chance to meet the Marquis de Lafayette portrayed by Charles Wissinger, playing 18th and 19th Century games, seeing 18th Century American soldiers drill and hearing why they fought, live music from the Harken Back String Band and a presentation on Dinwiddie County in the American Revolution by Aaron Stoyack.