Some of the biggest fireworks shows in the county are kicking off this weekend, as America prepares to mark its semiquincentennial on July 4.
In the week ahead, local communities and organizations will offer everything from classic community celebrations to alternatives to traditional fireworks displays, such as a daytime option at Mount Vernon or the Fairfax County Park Authority’s new patriotic drones lights show at Lake Fairfax Park.
The park authority has touted a debris-free, sensory-friendly experience for people and pets sensitive to loud noises where “hundreds of synchronized drones will light up the night sky with music, motion and patriotic images that celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and Fairfax County’s role in our nation’s story.”
The celebration will be moved to Sunday (June 28), from the originally planned date, due to the forecast of inclement weather, the park authority announced today. If you’re planning to go out this weekend, be sure to check organizers’ websites for updates in case of inclement weather.
Check out FFXnow’s list below to find a fireworks show, or see our more extensive list of 250th anniversary events.
Saturday, June 27
Community Independence Day Fireworks Celebration at Langley High School (6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean) 5-10 p.m.
Produced by the McLean Community Center, the celebration will include music, food, fireworks and a visit from the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience. Free admission and parking. An Independence Day parade and performance from the VCO Brass Quintet starts at 8 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:22 p.m.
Red, White and Boom at the Workhouse Arts Center (9518 Workhouse Way), 4-9:30 p.m.
The Workhouse’s annual fireworks festival includes live music and entertainment, carnival activities for kids, mini golf, and food trucks. Parking is $35 in advance or $40 the day of the event; VIP food and beverage packages are sold out.
Sunday, June 28
Independence Day celebration at Lake Fairfax Park (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston), noon-10 p.m.
A new patriotic drone lights show will be the centerpiece of Fairfax County’s Fourth of July celebration this year in lieu of fireworks. The day-long celebration includes food trucks, family activities and live music. Parking costs $20 per vehicle for an advance pass, or $25 at the gate. Pedestrians and bicyclists are free.
Thursday, July 2
Summerbration, “Bruce in the USA: A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen,” hosted by Reston Station (1800 Reston Row Plaza, Reston), opening at 5:30 p.m.
This family-friendly celebration includes a live DJ, splash pad, games, photo booth, food, and live music. Fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.
Vienna Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks at Yeonas Park (1319 Ross Drive SW, Vienna), 6-10 p.m.
The Town of Vienna’s annual Fourth of July fireworks includes live music for kids, food trucks, and a headline Latin pop performance by the band Ocho de Bastos. A 15-minute fireworks show begins at dark (approximately 9:30 p.m.) Free, but see the website for full details about parking and street closures.
Saturday, July 4
City of Fairfax 60th annual Independence Day celebration, evening fireworks show, Fairfax High School (3501 Lion Run), 6:30-10:30 p.m.
The city’s annual fireworks display — part of a full day of events throughout the city — includes live music and food vendors. Doors open at 5, shuttle bus service begins at 5:30, and music starts at 6:30. Fireworks will run from 9:30-9:50 p.m. See the website for information on bag checks and road closures, a list of vendors, and a map. Free.
Town of Herndon 4th of July Celebration held at Bready Park (814 Ferndale Avenue), beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The event includes live music, family games and activities, kids’ crafts, and music. Admission is free; food will be available for purchase. Visit the website for information on road closures. See website for information about road closures and parking. Free.
Celebrate Great Falls, held at Turner Farm (776 Walker Road), beginning at 6 p.m.
This event includes inflatables for kids, a cornhole tournament, and food trucks. Fireworks begin at dark, around 9 p.m. Suggested $20 donation per family.
An American Celebration, held at George Washington’s Mount Vernon (3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The home of America’s first president will host a full day of historic demonstrations, family activities, and a moving naturalization ceremony, in addition to daytime fireworks at 1 p.m. over the Potomac. Tickets are $28 for adults and youth over 12 years old, $14 for ages 6-11, and free for younger children.
