CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) Fourth of July fever is in the air and Charlottesville hosts an array of activities for the holiday.

Independence Day in Charlottesville offers a rich blend of history, community spirit, and festive celebration.

Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, live entertainment, or a spectacular fireworks display, Charlottesville has something special to offer.

Here’s a guide to the top activities happening in the area on July Fourth:

 

Charlottesville’s Annual Fireworks Show

One of the most anticipated events of the day is the spectacular fireworks display. Launching from the top of Carter Mountain, this event draws thousands of locals and visitors to witness the display.

The fireworks are scheduled for 9 p.m. and will be visible from vantage points across Central Virginia.

Make sure to arrive early to grab a good spot. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy the evening with family and friends.

Another Independence Day Celebration will be held at Boars Head Resort starting at 5 p.m.

There will be lawn games, food, drinks and live music from Koda & Marie of Chamomile and Whiskey, followed by an electrifying fireworks display.

Tickets are required for this event and must be purchased in advance.

 

Monticello Naturalization Ceremony

For over 60 years on July 4th, Monticello’s West Lawn has transformed into an outdoor courtroom, where dozens of new citizens take the Oath of Citizenship to become Americans.

Held at President Thomas Jefferson’s house, the event will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Filmmaker, Ken Burns, will be the keynote speaker at the ceremony.

The ceremony is free and features a morning filled with family activities, music, food options, and a celebration of citizenship.

 

Music Events

This year, the fourth lands on a Friday making it a perfect chance to see live music from the Ting Pavillion alongside your Independence Day celebrations.

This week’s musical guest is the Psychedelic Rock band; Kendall Street Company and the show will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 pm.

The Southern Cafe & Music Hall will be hosting a karaoke night starting at 9 p.m. and claim that anything they can find on YouTube, you can sing.

 

Local Charity Event

The Kiwanis Independence Day 5K will be held at Lakeside Middle School in Hollymead.

The entry fee is $40 and registration closes on the morning of the fourth.

Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Charlottesville and the Charlottesville Track Club, the 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m. and the proceeds will go to benefit the Salvation Army, Central Little League and Charlottesville Community Bikes.

 

Surrounding Counties’ Celebrations

Down in Scottsville, a Fourth of July parade will be held in the morning. Music, food, and games will be available in the afternoon, and fireworks over the James River in the evening.

Folk music concerts, the Virginia Log Chopping Championships, an indoor and outdoor antique exhibition and flea market, fireworks and candy throwing for passersby have all been part of previous celebrations.

The parade kicks off at 9 a.m. and the fireworks will begin at dusk.

Over in Crozet, the Independence Day Celebration begins at 5 p.m. with the Crozet Volunteer Fire Department parade on Crozet Avenue to Crozet Park.

The celebration following will be hosted at King Family Vineyards with local music, activities for children, food, local beer, cider, wine and fireworks around 9:30 p.m.

In Keswick, Keswick Vineyards will host a Reds, Whites & Bluegrass Celebration with red and white Virginia wines, local beers and wine slushies.

There will be Bluegrass music performed by local band, The Waterfalls Trio from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and there will be face painting and food vendors available for lunch including Cousins Main Lobster, Kona Ice and Barrel and Board.

 

Whether you’re a local or visiting Charlottesville for the first time, the fourth of July offers an array of activities that will make your Independence Day celebration one to remember. From historic sites and family-friendly parades to the dazzling fireworks show, there’s no shortage of things to do.