Celebrating the 4th of July in RVA: Let Freedom Ring
Whether you're a local resident or a tourist eager to explore, Richmond offers a wide range of festivities that promise enjoyment for everyone. From dazzling fireworks displays and old-timey parades to historical reenactments and family-friendly events, this guide will help you uncover the best ways to celebrate Independence Day in the River City. Prepare to experience the excitement of Richmond this 4th of July!
FIREWORKS
Dogwood Dell at Byrd Park, free for all ages
Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. with a live performance by the Richmond Concert Jazz Band, followed by the Richmond Concert Band at 7:30, and concluding with fireworks starting around 9:15 p.m.
Expect food vendors and kids activities
Overflow parking and shuttle service from City Stadium is from 4-11pm.
NOTE: Arthur Ashe Boulevard will be closed going toward Dogwood Dell starting at 6pm, as will the Nickel Bridge.
TIP: Overflow parking is available at City Stadium with a free shuttle bus.
Flying Squirrels Baseball at The Diamond, sold out game
If you haven’t secured your tickets for this sold out game yet, the Squirrels will be hosting games with fireworks on July 5 and July 6.
Chesterfield Fourth of July Celebration at Chesterfield County Fairgrounds, free for all ages
Expect food vendors, kids activities ($5 fee for kid zone entry)
DJ and Live music from the Morgan Lynsey Band
Fireworks will begin around dark.
FESTIVITIES
Red, White, and Lights at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, free for all ages
For those looking for a more sensory-friendly way to ring in the 4th of July, Henrico County’s celebration will conclude with a laser light show finale rather than fireworks.
Live music from J. Roddy Walston and the Richmond Symphony
Expect food trucks and a kids zone
Laser light show finale set to live music by The Richmond Symphony
Gates open at 4pm, laser show starts at 9:15pm
Fourth of July at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, free for all ages
Explore the gardens for free all day, grab lunch from the food truck on site, and don’t miss the horticulture exhibit “Flourish: 40 Years and Growing.”
Ashland July 4th Parade and Celebration at Hanover Arts and Activities Center, free for all ages
Described as an “endearing small town walking parade and a patriotic concert by the Hanover Concert Band on the lawn,” this event drips with nostalgia for those looking for a slower pace this Independence Day.
Non-motorized parade
Patriotic performance by the Hanover Concert Band
Look forward to costume contests, a Patriotic Pet Contest,food, drinks, snow cones, lawn games, food, and an apple pie baking contest and auction.
CELEBRATING HISTORY
New Americans' Oath of Allegiance at The Virginia Museum of History & Culture, free for all ages
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture is hosting its annual Fourth of July naturalization ceremony for approximately 75 candidates, who will be sworn in as newly naturalized citizens.
Celebrate America with some of her newest citizens in person or online at 11am
Ukrop's cake for those celebrating in person
Live music after the ceremony
VA250 Independence Day at Virginia State Capitol (Square), free for all ages
Inspired by John Adams’ vision of a grand festival, the majestic Virginia State Capitol grounds will transform into a vibrant hub of activity, bursting with the sights and sounds of Virginia’s diverse communities as part of a lead up to American’s 250th birthday in 2026.
Several speakers, including Geoff Bennett of PBS News Hour as the MC
Enjoy a bell-ringing ceremony, speakers
Music by Quantico Marine Band, New Fellowship Gospel Choir, Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums, and more
Drone light show
Nearby parking and shuttles are free
NOTE: RSVPs are requested
"Give me liberty, or give me death" reenactment at Historic St. John’s Church
History- where it happened. Be a part of history as Patrick Henry convinces his fellow delegates to take up arms against the king.
Live reenactment of Patrick Henry's "Give me liberty, or give me death" speech
Tickets required, $15 for adults and $12 for kids 12 and under.
