Spend a historic Fourth of July weekend in Virginia. You and your family can go exploring through the Great House, marvel at a magnificent fireworks display, or attend a reading of the Declaration of Independence. Book a stay at one of many cozy vacation rentals in Virginia today. Check out the top family-friendly places to visit in Virginia on Independence Day.
1. Williamsburg
Williamsburg is the place to be on Independence Day if you’re a history lover. Visit the courthouse steps to hear a reading of the Declaration of Independence. In Colonial Williamsburg, you can play games such as tug of war and tomahawk throwing. For the fireworks, find a good viewing spot in Market Square.
2. Yorktown
If your vacation rental for the fourth is in Yorktown, you can join the celebrations at the Yorktown Victory Center. You can watch some military drills and even join in. Yorktown also has an annual parade followed by fireworks over the York River.
3. Abingdon
Abingdon has an annual All-American Independence Day Extravaganza in the Abingdon Market Pavilion on Saturday, July 1, 2017. The event is being held from 4 to 10 pm. There will be live historians, a block party with a DJ, a beer garden and more. Live music begins at 6 pm and the fireworks begin at 9:15 pm.
4. Bristol
If your vacation rental is in Bristol, head over to Cumberland Square Park from 5 to 10 pm on July 4th. In addition to local veterans being recognized, there are also food and craft vendors, eating contests, and family events in the park. The fireworks start at 10 pm.
5. Fort Monroe
Fort Monroe’s festivities are from 10 am to 10 pm on July 4, 2017. The day starts with a flag ceremony to honor James Monroe. While in Fort Monroe you can see exhibits at the NASA Langley Research Center and the Casemate Museum. There will also be craft and food vendors, along with giveaways and games. The fireworks begin at 9:15 pm.
6. Stratford
As the home to many historical figures such as Robert E. Lee, Stratford is a great place to be for the Fourth of July. Stratford has an annual Lees and Independence Family Fun Festival held on July 4th from 9:30 am to 5 pm. You can eat barbecue food, see miniature farm animals, get free admission to the Great House, and even get a free caricature drawing.
7. Cape Charles
If you’re looking to join a small town’s Fourth of July celebration, Cape Charles is a great place to go. The parade, which begins at 10 am, includes the singing of the national anthem, horses, and firetrucks. Head over to the Cape Charles beach at dusk to watch the fireworks show.
8. Chesapeake
Chesapeake’s fourth of July celebrations is from 5 pm to 10 pm on July 3, 2017. The event has free admission and plenty of children’s activities, such as lawn games, inflatables, and face painting. The U.S. Army TRADOC Band will be performing, followed by a large fireworks show.
9. Norfolk
If you’re renting in Norfolk Virginia, head over to Town Point Park for festivities from 5 to 10 pm. Listen to live music while on the waterfront. Enjoy traditional American food such as hot dogs and corn on the cob. The fireworks show begins at 9:30 pm. The event is free to the public!
10. Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach is a beautiful and popular spot to be at on July 4th. The Stars & Stripes Explosion event is held right on the beach. It features live bands and fireworks, all of which are free to the public. For parking, you can park in the 25th Street Municipal Garage or the 31st Street Municipal Garage.