Celebrate the Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg with events and activities for the whole family.
Images from Colonial Williamsburg
Celebrate Independence Day at Colonial Williamsburg
Where better to celebrate the birth of America than historic Colonial Williamsburg. During the 18th century, Williamsburg was where the first ideas of America’s freedom and independence took shape. Celebrate the Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg with events and activities for the whole family.
Colonial Williamsburg Independence Day
Throughout Colonial Williamsburg, the living-history museum will be holding events and activities, both free and those that require a ticket to Colonial Williamsburg. Experience patriotic festivities, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, live music and a firework display to end the day.
Fourth of July Events and Activities at Colonial Williamsburg
Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Begin your day exploring Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area. There, you will find citizens gathering to hear a reading of the Declaration of Independence. There will be readings throughout the day, including one at noon with a firing of the Noon Gun. This event is free and open to the public.
Created Equal
This year, Colonial Williamsburg is celebrating 40 years of African American interpretation. At the Charlton Stage, on July 4, explore the African American perspectives on the Declaration, the revolutions that came from it and the continuing struggle for equality in America. This event is free and open to the public.
A Conversation with Anika Noni Rose
Actress and singer Anika Noni Rose visits Colonial Williamsburg for a discussion on the role an artist plays through their characters in larger conversation. A separate ticket is required for this Revolutionary in Residence Conversation at Hennage Auditorium.
Salute the States
Head to Market Square to salute the nation’s 13 original states. The Fifes and Drums of Colonial Williamsburg will play as the flag of each state is displayed with muskets and canon fire. This event is free and open to the public.
Lights of Freedom
At the end of the day, watch 18th-century fireworks fill the sky on Palace Green. This dazzling firework display is set to patriotic Americana and colonial music. Anika Noni Rose kicks off the event as she sings the national anthem. This event is free and open to the public. Festivities begin at 9 p.m., while the fireworks start at 9:20 p.m.
Colonial Williamsburg Fourth of July Dining
While there are several restaurants near Colonial Williamsburg, you won’t even have to leave the Historic Area for a meal on July 4. Colonial Williamsburg’s restaurants will offer two special dining options in honor of the Fourth of July.
Make your reservation to have breakfast with Thomas and Martha Jefferson at Shields Tavern. Before the reading of the Declaration of Independence, enjoy a casual breakfast at the beautiful Shields Tavern. Diners will be able to eat and mingle with Thomas Jefferson before he reads the Declaration at the Capitol.
Head to Chowning’s Tavern for a Fourth of July party. Have a delicious meal in the garden from a menu that the chef has prepared specially for Independence Day. Chowning’s July 4th Holiday Party will require a reservation.
