America’s birthday is right around the corner, aka 4th of July. From setting the night sky ablaze with fireworks to al fresco dining parties, America’s Independence Day is a big deal—and we’re here for it!
Break out the sparklers and flaunt your patriotic zeal with everything red, white, and blue! We’ve rounded up some great 4th of July events near Charlottesville to mark a memorable day.
“Independence Day: freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed – else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.”
First, Some History
What is Fourth of July? And why do we celebrate the holiday?
For centuries, 4th of July celebrations have echoed tunes of American freedom and pride. It’s an incredibly significant day in our history—marking the day the United States of America became its own nation.
To quote the Library of Congress, “On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the colonies’ separation from Great Britain.” The historic event was marked by the ringing of Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell.
Although 4th of July festivities were commonplace since after the War of 1812, the day was not recognized as a federal holiday until 1870. This year the holiday falls on a Monday—and to most people, that means 3 blissful days of summer fun.
4th of July Events Near Charlottesville
Charlottesville is an idyllic 4th of July destination, whether you’re a resident or planning to visit. Everything about the city and its surroundings oozes pride for the ol’ red, white, and blue—from its historically-significant sites to the patriotic, friendly community.
The question is: How do you plan to observe the day? We’ve got some ideas to help you pay tribute to America’s birthday near Charlottesville:
1. “Celebrate Us! Charlottesville” at Carter Mountain
Firework shows are a timeless Independence Day tradition. And no one does it better in Charlottesville than “Celebrate US! Charlottesville,” who will be lighting up the sky over Carter Mountain on July 4. And even if you miss the event, it will be televised live on MeTV and replayed on FOX Virginia at 10:30 p.m.
But the real event is less about setting off fireworks and more about the community effort behind it all. Community members band together to donate to the event, and the proceeds will be donated to the Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad (CARS). This is a great way to appreciate the land you live on and the community that calls it home.
Fun Fact: America imported around $468 million worth of fireworks in 2021. Talk about celebrating with a bang!
Where: Private Property on Carter’s Mountain
Time: July 4, from 9:00 p.m.
2. “Happy Birthday, America” at Carter Mountain Orchard
The Carter Mountain Orchard is the place to be this Fourth of July! It’s an opportunity to enjoy the fresh mountain air, a breathtaking view of the lush countryside, and a sky full of fireworks by “Celebrate US! Charlottesville” going bang. The event also features live music, face painting, local food trucks, and adult beverages—all recipes for a memorable and patriotic day.
Where: Carter Mountain Orchard, 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22901
Time: July 4, from 6:00 p.m.
Website: Chilesfamilyorchards.com
3. “Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony” at The Monticello
Thomas Jefferson has an interesting love story with the 4th of July. Few people (if any) are as synonymous with the day as the beloved Founding Father.
Jefferson is credited as the main literary brain behind the Declaration of Independence that began the tradition in the first place. He was also the first president to commemorate the day at the White House. And fate would have him push up daisies on July 4, 1826. So why not celebrate America’s Independence at the Founding Father’s home?
Head over to the Monticello for their 60th annual Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony. The event features music and tons of activities for the whole family.
Where: Monticello
Time: July 4, from 9:00 a.m.
Website: Monticello.org
4. “Celebration of Independence Day” at James Monroe’s Highland
Neighboring Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is Highland, home to the fellow president and Founding Father James Monroe. And a great location to commemorate Independence Day.
The Revolutionary War Veteran’s home will host a free concert for the whole family. The event will feature serenading classically-inspired music from the Heifetz International Music Institute. There’s a picnic area for those of you who’d like to gorge on red, white, and blue treats on the site.
Where: James Monroe’s Highland
Time: July 4, from 2:00 p.m.
Website: Highland.org
5. Independence Day Party at Boar’s Head Resort
Make the most of the long Independence Day weekend at Boar’s Head Resort. It’s where everything great about the Fourth comes to life. This includes pool parties, a hot dog eating contest, yard games, food trucks, live music (by Koda and Marie of Chamomile and Whiskey & Friends), and a dazzling fireworks display.
Where: Boar’s Head Resort, 200 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903
Time: July 1 – July 4
Website: Boarsheadresort.com
6. “Independence Day Parade & Celebration” at Scottsville
What’s more patriotic than a Fourth of July parade? Flags everywhere, marching bands, and a community coming together to celebrate. It’s the quintessential way to mark our freedom and pride. And if this is your thing, set your sails for Scottsville, Virginia.
The Scottsville Volunteer Fire Department and The Town of Scottsville will be sponsoring the historic “Annual Independence Day Parade and Celebration.” The parade starts marching at 9 a.m., followed by a car show at Dansey Field, a spectacular fireworks celebration over the James River, and live music at Dorrier Park to cap off the day.
Where: Downtown Scottsville
Time: July 4, from 9 a.m.
Website: 4th of July Parade in Scottsville, Virginia (Facebook)
7. Red, White, Blue, ‘N Greene
The town of Stanardsville may be small, but they go big on Independence Day. Make plans for their annual Fourth of July parade down Main Street—and bring whistles and flags to cheer on veterans, first responders, local businesses, and other groups as they march down the street.
The celebrations climax at Morris Field, where every family member can delight in a multitude of activities, including live music, food trucks, and fireworks.
Where: Main Street Stanardsville and Morris Field (13510 Spotswood Trail, Ruckersville, VA)
Time: July 4, from 10 a.m.
Website: Rwbng.org
Other Fourth of July Events Near Charlottesville
- Kiwanis Independence Day 5K (July 2) – At 2801 Powell Creek Drive, Lakeside Middle School, Charlottesville, VA 22911
- Independence Day at Wintergreen (July 2nd and 3rd) – At Wintergreen Resort, Route 664, Wintergreen, VA 22958
- Independence Day Weekend Wrangler Campout (July 2) – At WAR Craft Brewery, 7851 White Oak Rd, Rapidan, VA 22733
- July 4 Celebrations for Madison County (July 4) – At Graves Mountain Farm, 205 Graves Mountain Lane, Old Blue Ridge Turnpike, Syria, VA 22743
- Crozet Independence Day Parade and Celebration (July 2) – At Claudius Crozet Park, Crozet, VA 22932
Let Freedom Ring!
Whether you celebrate the 4th of July at home or in one of the events near Charlottesville, remember what the day represents. It’s about the American story. A story of patriotism, courage, freedom, opportunity, and fun as a united family.
Happy 4th of July from the Avenue Realty Team!
