Looking for the best way to celebrate Independence Day in the Richmond area? Whether you're searching for a fireworks show, live music, a family-friendly festival, or a classic small-town parade, there are plenty of ways to spend the holiday. Here's a roundup of some of the biggest Fourth of July events happening around Central Virginia.
Location: CarMax Park
Address: 2929 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220
Celebrate the Fourth with an evening of live entertainment and one of Richmond's biggest fireworks displays. The Star-Spangled Squirrels Fest features performances by Grateful Shred and the No BS! Brass Band before ending the night with a fireworks spectacular. Guests can choose between bowl seating or on-field access, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy the show up close.
Location: Hardywood Park Craft Brewery – Ownby Location
Address: 2410 Ownby Ln., Richmond, VA 23220
If you're looking for a laid-back holiday celebration, Hardywood's annual Let Lagers Ring event offers a full afternoon of live music, local food, craft beer, and family-friendly fun. The free event runs from noon until 9 p.m., making it an easy stop whether you're spending the entire day there or just dropping by.
Admission: Free
Location: Dogwood Dell at Byrd Park
Address: 600 S. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond, VA 23220
A Richmond tradition for generations, Dogwood Dell's annual Fourth of July celebration remains one of the city's most popular events. The evening begins with a performance by the Richmond Concert Band before fireworks light up the sky after dark.
Bring a blanket or lawn chair, pack a picnic if you'd like, and plan to arrive early—this free event draws thousands of attendees each year.
Admission: Free
Location: Chesterfield County Fairgrounds
Address: 10300 Courthouse Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23832
The Chesterfield Fourth of July Celebration is one of the region's largest Independence Day events. Gates open at 5 p.m., with live music, food vendors, children's activities, and family entertainment throughout the evening before a fireworks finale after sunset.
If you're planning to attend, arriving early is recommended since this event is expected to draw large crowds.
Admission: Free
Location: Kings Dominion
Address: 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047
Turn the Fourth of July into an all-day adventure at Kings Dominion. Spend the day riding roller coasters, cooling off at Soak City, or exploring the park before settling in for the annual Star-Spangled Nights fireworks show at 10 p.m.
Admission to the park is required, making this a great choice for families or thrill-seekers looking to combine a day at the amusement park with an evening fireworks display.
Location: Hanover Arts & Activities Center
Address: 500 S. Center St., Ashland, VA 23005
For a traditional hometown celebration, Ashland's annual Fourth of July festivities are hard to beat. The celebration includes a community parade, patriotic music, lawn games, an apple pie contest, a pet costume contest, and activities for all ages.
Running from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., it's an ideal way to kick off the holiday before heading to an evening fireworks show elsewhere in the region.
Admission: Free
Whether you're looking for a relaxing afternoon at a local brewery, a family-friendly community celebration, or one of the area's biggest fireworks displays, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate Independence Day around Richmond.
No matter where you spend the holiday, be sure to arrive early for popular events, stay hydrated, and have a safe and happy Fourth of July.