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.