The road to America’s 250th birthday starts in the Historic Area of Colonial Williamsburg. This July 4th, join George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Gowan Pamphlet and the rest of Williamsburg’s 18th-century residents as they set the stage for an unforgettable countdown to America’s semiquincentennial in 2026.
With free admission to the Historic Area and Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, guests can step back in time and immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and spirit of 1776. Thousands of people are expected to gather for this year’s festivities, which include dramatic readings of the Declaration of Independence, thrilling artillery demonstrations, patriotic musical performances, and a fireworks finale that lights up the skies above the Governor’s Palace.
“This year’s July 4th celebration will echo with both history and anticipation,” said Cliff Fleet, president and CEO of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. “Williamsburg stood at the epicenter of the American story 250 years ago, and we’re proud to play a leading role once again as we approach the semiquincentennial.”
Claim your complimentary ticket now at colonialwilliamsburg.org/tickets/july4.
Event Highlights:
Darnell Vennie, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Thomas Jefferson begins July 4 with a reading of the Declaration of Independence from the balcony of the Capitol.
9:30am – Declaration of Independence Reading
Capitol Circle
Hear the powerful words of liberty echo once more as Thomas Jefferson delivers the Declaration of Independence from the Capitol balcony.
Wayne Reynolds, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
The Virginia State Garrison Regiment presents cannon salutes on July 4th.
10:30am – Salute to the States
Market Square North
March to the beat of history with the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums and Virginia State Garrison Regiment in a salute to the original 13 states.
12pm – Noon Reading of Declaration
Courthouse Steps
Join members of Williamsburg’s diverse 18th-century community in reading of the Declaration—just as many Americans might have heard it for the first time.
Brian Newson, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums perform on July 4th.
2pm – Here Every Presence is Warlike
Market Square North
Begin your training as a recruit in a new regiment raised for the defense of Virginia in the summer of 1775.
Wayne Reynolds, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums will perform on July 4th.
3pm – A Patriotic Celebration
Hennage Auditorium in the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg
Cool off indoors while you listen to vocal and instrumental chamber music of the 18th century that tells the story of American independence.
Wayne Reynolds, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Crowds assemble on Palace Green for July 4th programming and fireworks.
8pm – Lights of Freedom
Palace Green
Enjoy a celebration of the words and music of the American Revolution featuring a reading of the Declaration of Independence, American marching music of the Revolution, and a special appearance by the Virginia Chorale. Bring chairs, blankets, and a picnic as the sun sets on a day of patriotism and pageantry.
Darnell Vennie, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Fireworks light up the sky above the Governor's Palace on July 4th.
9:30pm – Fireworks
Governor’s Palace
The night ends with a bang—a 20-minute fireworks display that lights up the sky above the Governor’s Palace. Prime viewing areas include Palace Green and Market Square.
Explore even more throughout the day—from historic trades and building tours to hands-on activities, exhibitions, and live performances. Check out the full lineup at colonialwilliamsburg.org/events-calendar.
Know Before You Go
- Parking & Transportation: Free and paid parking options are available around the Historic Area, downtown Williamsburg, and at the Visitor Center. Complimentary bus service will run on WATA Route 15: Colonial. Details at gowata.org.
- Food and beverage: From casual snacks to reservation-only dining experiences, enjoy a variety of food options throughout the Historic Area and Merchants Square. Full dining info: colonialwilliamsburg.org/july-4/#dining and merchantssquare.org/dine.
- Weather: Fireworks are weather-dependent. For updates, follow Colonial Williamsburg on social media or text CWEVENT to 226787 to receive real-time notifications.
For all FAQs, including information on restrooms, accessibility, and more, visit: colonialwilliamsburg.org/july-4#faq.
July 4th at Colonial Williamsburg
About The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation preserves, restores and operates Virginia’s 18th-century capital of Williamsburg. Innovative and interactive experiences highlight the relevance of the American Revolution to contemporary life and the importance of an informed, active citizenry. The Colonial Williamsburg experience includes more than 600 restored or reconstructed original buildings, renowned museums of decorative arts and folk art, extensive educational outreach programs for students and teachers and 18th-century inspired culinary options from historic taverns situated along historic Duke of Gloucester Street. Colonial Williamsburg Resorts complement the experience, offering guests five unique hotel properties including the iconic Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond Williamsburg Inn, newly renovated Williamsburg Lodge-Autograph Collection, Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel and Suites, the Griffin Hotel, and authentic 18th-century Colonial Houses. The resort offers a range of events and amenities including four historic taverns, 15 food and beverage outlets providing exquisite culinary experiences from casual to elegant dining, the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club featuring 36 holes designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and his son Rees Jones, a world-class full-service spa and fitness center, pools, meeting and flexible event spaces, and scenic gardens providing the perfect venue for weddings and special events. Merchants Square, built alongside the Historic Area in 1935 as one of the first planned shopping districts in the United States, features more than 40 specialty boutiques with products ranging from apparel to fine jewelry, art, specialty foods and gifts. Philanthropic support and revenue from admissions, products and hospitality operations sustain Colonial Williamsburg’s educational programs and preservation initiatives.
