This is a past event guide. All July 4th, 2026 celebrations listed below have already taken place. For current events and activities near Varina and Henrico, check out our Things To Do Nearby page.
This Fourth of July was extra special. 2026 marked America's 250th birthday, and the Richmond metro area celebrated in a big way. From Richmond's historic Byrd Park to Colonial Williamsburg's largest fireworks display ever, there was no shortage of ways to light up Independence Day. This guide captured all the celebrations happening near Henrico and the surrounding area. Use it as a reference for next year, and check out current events on our Things to Do page.
Red, White & Lights — Henrico County
Henrico County's signature Independence Day celebration returns with a spectacular laser light show set to music. This family-friendly event features a live performance by the Richmond Symphony, historical interpreters, a Kids Zone, and a variety of food vendors. The event is free and open to the public. The Meadow Farm Museum grounds offer plenty of space to spread out a blanket and enjoy the show.
This is a laser light show — not traditional fireworks — making it a great option for families with pets or those sensitive to loud noises.
Dogwood Dell "The Big Show" — Richmond
A Richmond tradition since 1957, "The Big Show" is part of the 69th annual Dogwood Dell Festival for the Arts. The evening kicks off with a live performance by the Richmond Concert Band, followed by one of the region's most iconic fireworks displays lighting up the sky over Byrd Park. Arrive early to claim a good spot — this event draws thousands. Free admission.
Star-Spangled Squirrels Fest — The Diamond / CarMax Park, Richmond
The Richmond Flying Squirrels are hosting what they're calling the largest fireworks show in Richmond. The Star-Spangled Squirrels Fest features live music from Grateful Shred and the No BS! Brass Band, on-field access between innings, and a post-game fireworks spectacular that promises to be the crown jewel of this year's celebrations. Tickets are required — visit the Flying Squirrels website for pricing and availability.
Chesterfield County Fourth of July Celebration
Chesterfield County's annual Fourth of July Celebration is a free, family-friendly event featuring live music by The KOS Band, food vendors, a Kids Zone, and a grand fireworks display to cap off the evening. The Chesterfield County Fairgrounds provide ample parking and open viewing areas. This is one of the most popular Independence Day events in the metro area.
New Kent County Independence Day Celebration
New Kent County kicks off the holiday early with a 15-minute fireworks show provided by Master Displays, LLC, set for 9:30 PM on Friday evening. The event also includes food trucks and family activities. This is a great option if you want to celebrate on July 3rd and save July 4th for another event — or hit both.
Rockahock Campgrounds "Star-Spangled 250" — Lanexa
Rockahock Campgrounds is hosting a "Star-Spangled 250 Year Celebration" for the Fourth of July weekend, marking America's semiquincentennial. The campground has a long history of impressive Independence Day fireworks displays and this year's celebration is expected to be their biggest yet. Perfect for families looking for a more laid-back, outdoor holiday experience — consider making a weekend of it with camping.
Exact fireworks time and full event schedule — check back for updates or visit rockahockcampground.com.
Colonial Williamsburg Independence Day
This is the event of the year. Colonial Williamsburg is hosting the largest fireworks display in the foundation's history as part of "America Made in Virginia: 250 Years Together," presented in partnership with the Virginia 250 Commission. The evening begins with a drone show at 9:25 PM, followed by approximately 15 minutes of fireworks over the Governor's Palace starting at 9:35 PM. A lineup of American musicians will perform throughout the evening.
Admission is free on July 4th. Best viewing is from Palace Green. Parking is available at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center lot (limited capacity), with overflow at William & Mary's Zable Stadium and Kaplan Arena. There is no rain date — check Colonial Williamsburg's social media for weather updates.
Colonial Williamsburg is approximately 50 miles from Henrico — about an hour's drive. Worth the trip for America's 250th birthday.
Tips for Enjoying Fourth of July Around Richmond
- Plan your route. July 4th traffic near event venues can be heavy. Leave early and know your parking situation in advance.
- Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Most outdoor events are general admission — the earlier you arrive, the better your spot.
- Pack snacks and water. While food vendors are usually available, lines can be long. Stay hydrated — July in Virginia is hot.
- Consider noise-sensitive pets. If your dog or cat is afraid of fireworks, Henrico's Red, White & Lights laser show is a quieter alternative.
- Double-check event details. Dates, times, and locations can change. Visit the event's official website or social media before heading out.
Making Henrico Home
One of the things I love most about living and working in Henrico is the sense of community — and there's no better example than Independence Day. Whether you're watching the laser show at Crump Park with your family, catching fireworks at Byrd Park, or making the drive to Colonial Williamsburg for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, this area knows how to come together.
If you're thinking about making a move to the Richmond metro area, I'd love to help you find a home that puts you right in the heart of it all. Reach out anytime — no pressure, just honest guidance from someone who knows the area.
Shannon Russell
MRP Certified Real Estate Agent
VA License #0225244820 · 804-803-1080 · AgentS.Russell@gmail.com
Find Your Home in Henrico
1343 Bartlett Rd is just minutes from everything the Richmond area has to offer.