It’s that time of year again – Fourth of July celebrations are happening all around Richmond. If you’re just now thinking about what to do this Thursday, we’ve got you covered with a list of family friendly events around town. Expect big crowds and traffic, but also, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy time with friends and family. Just be safe and make sure to take a Lyft if you are having too much fun, the police will be out in force.
Fireworks & Family-Friendly Events
Richmond Flying Squirrels Baseball Game: Independence Day Celebration & Super Blast Fireworks
Where: The Diamond
When: July 4, 2024, 6:35 p.m.
Want to catch a baseball game? The Richmond Flying Squirrels are playing the Bowie Baysox at The Diamond. Stick around after the game for the big fireworks show. Grab your tickets HERE before it sells out.
Dogwood Dell Fourth of July Celebration
Where: Dogwood Dell (Byrd Park)
When: July 4, 2024, Time TBD
For a laid-back evening, check out Dogwood Dell in Byrd Park. They’ve got live music and it’s free. Just bring a picnic, a blanket, and enjoy the night. Early arrival is a good idea. More details HERE
4th of July Fireworks at Kings Dominion
Where: Kings Dominion
When: July 4, 2024, 9:00 p.m.
If you’re up for some rides, Kings Dominion is having their usual fireworks show. Spend the day on roller coasters and in Soak City, then watch the fireworks at night. You can get more details HERE!
Chesterfield County 4th of July Celebration
Where: Chesterfield County Fairgrounds
When: July 4, 2024, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Head to the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds for a family-friendly event with a fireworks display at dark. There are food vendors, live music, and kids’ activities. Find out more HERE!
Red, White & Lights
Where: Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park
When: July 4, 2024, 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Check out Meadow Farm Museum for live entertainment, food trucks, and a concert by the Richmond Symphony. The night ends with a laser light show. Arrive early to get a good spot. More details can be found HERE!
Free Fourth of July at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Where: Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
When: July 4, 2024, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Spend the day at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with free admission. Enjoy the gardens, the Butterflies LIVE! exhibit, and kids’ activities. More information can be found HERE!
Independence Day Liberty or Death Reenactment
Where: Historic St. John’s Church
When: July 4, 2024, Select Times
If you’re into history, St. John’s Church is doing a reenactment of Patrick Henry’s “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech. It’s a neat way to see history come to life. Details HERE!
VA250 Independence Day
Where: Virginia State Capitol
When: July 4, 2024, 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Join the historic celebration with a bell-ringing ceremony, speakers, Quantico Marine Band, and fireworks. Geoff Bennett of PBS News Hour will be the MC. Details can be found HERE!
Ashland Parade and Celebration
Where: Hanover Arts and Activities Center
When: July 4, 2024, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
For a small-town feel, head to Ashland for a non-motorized parade and a patriotic performance by the Hanover Concert Band. There are costume contests, food, drinks, and more. More details HERE!
Bars, Breweries & Restaurant Events
Red, Whites, & Tunes
Where: James River Cellars
When: July 4, 2024, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day with live music at James River Cellars. Enjoy music by Ryan Link and wine tastings. More details HERE!
Peña Verde and John Dallas Band at Island Shrimp Co.
Where: Rocketts Landing
When: July 4-5, 2024, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy live music and food at Island Shrimp Co. Rocketts Landing. Peña Verde performs on Thursday, and John Dallas Band takes the stage on Friday. Happy hour is from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. More details HERE!
Red, White, & Rose – Fourth of July at Q Rooftop Bar
Where: Quirk Hotel Richmond
When: July 4, 2024, 6:30 – 10:30 p.m.
Celebrate with spectacular views of fireworks around the city at Q Rooftop Bar. Enjoy wine tastings and food offerings from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. The bar stays open until 11:00 p.m. More details HERE!
4th of July Firework Viewing from the James
Where: James River
When: July 4, 2024, 6:00 – 11:30 p.m.
Get the best view of the fireworks on the James River with RVA Paddlesports. Enjoy a catered dinner and watch the fireworks show from the river. More details HERE!
VMHC Citizenship Ceremony and Celebration
Where: Virginia Museum of History & Culture
When: July 4, 2024, 11:00 a.m.
Something different but you can witness 75 candidates being sworn in as newly naturalized citizens, followed by live music and Ukrop’s cake. more details HERE!
Extra Fun Ideas
RIDE the James
Consider renting equipment from Waterfront RVA, like kayaks or paddle boards, and explore the James River at your own pace. For more adventure, take a scenic Riverfront Canal Cruise! Sail along the James River and Kanawha Canal, enjoying the city skyline and historic landmarks.
Dine from the Top of the City
Enjoy a great meal outside at one of Downtown Richmond’s many restaurants. Lots of places have outdoor seating, perfect for soaking up the lively atmosphere. For something special, check out a rooftop bar where you can sip on drinks while taking in awesome views of the city and the James River. You might even catch some fireworks!
