There’s no greater place to celebrate 250 years of American independence!
Celebrate this unforgettable Fourth of July in Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown with spectacular events and activities that will transport you back in time to America’s beginnings. Check out major events and celebrations below, or see all Fourth of July events and happenings.
Beyond special events, enjoy all things Americana at our iconic museums and attractions. Or, explore the area’s natural attractions with our many outdoor activities, from hiking and biking scenic parks to boating storied waterways. Plus, enjoy outdoor dining at many Williamsburg restaurants, craft breweries, and wineries. However you choose to celebrate the holiday, be sure to end the day with a dazzling fireworks display.
Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg
The area’s largest celebration, Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg, features music, special programming, and breathtaking fireworks — and this year’s fireworks are set to be the largest display ever produced at The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. The show will be broadcast live across the country by PBS.
On July 4th, admission is free to the Historic Area and the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. Pre-register to claim complimentary single-day July 4th tickets on their website, or opt for a multi-day ticket with special programming.
The lineup includes:
- 9:30 to 9:50 a.m. – Thomas Jefferson reads the Declaration of Independence (Capitol Circle)
- 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – The Great American Birthday Quilt is on display
- 10:30 to 10:55 a.m. – Salute to the States with Fifes & Drums and musket volley
- 11:30 to 11:50 a.m. – “Freedom and the Fog of War” demonstration
- 12:00 to 12:15 p.m. – “Williamsburg Declares” presentation
- 2:00 to 2:20 p.m. – “Under Arms: Training the Grand Army”
- 2:00 to 2:45 p.m. – “Pursuing Happiness” performance
- 4:00 to 4:25 p.m. – “Beat the Retreat: Marching to a New Nation”
- 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. – “America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together” with fireworks at 9:35 p.m.
The best location for fireworks viewing is the Palace Green. The fireworks can also be seen from Market Square and the Magazine.
For more information, including programming for July 2–3, visit colonialwilliamsburg.org.
Independence Day in Historic Yorktown
Historic Yorktown features its longstanding Independence Day Celebration, a full day of programming including several free, family-friendly events. Festivities kick off with the Fourth of July Parade and end with the Fireworks Spectacular on the waterfront.
The lineup includes:
- 7:00 to 10:30 a.m. – Yorktown Independence Day 8K & 5K
- 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. – Fourth of July Parade
- 1:00 p.m. – Family activities at Riverwalk Landing
- 7:00 p.m. – Bell Ringing Ceremony and Declaration reading
- 8:00 p.m. – Patriotic concert
- 9:15 to 9:45 p.m. – Fireworks over the York River
The free, accessible Yorktown Trolley will begin service after the parade with multiple stops throughout town.
For more information, visit visityorktown.org.
More Summer Events
Beyond Fourth of July celebrations, discover more about America 250 events and festivals in Williamsburg or explore the guide to summer events.