Celebrate the Fourth of July in Charlottesville and Albemarle County
Looking for the perfect place to spend Independence Day? Head to Charlottesville, Virginia for the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-time celebration! From live music and family-friendly fun to unforgettable fireworks, there's no better place to soak up the spirit of the fourth.
This blog is updated as of 4.6.2026. Please check back for more updates as we get closer to the holiday.
Best Places to View Fireworks in Charlottesville
The C'ville Spectacular Fireworks show is back! The breathtaking display will light up the night sky for 18 minutes and be visible from vantage points across Central Virginia — so grab your spot early and get ready to celebrate America in style. The show starts at 9PM sharp and we've got the scoop on the best places to go. Take a look at our collection of events, including free public viewing spots, fun business-hosted events, and ticketed festivities.
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Piedmont Virginia Community College
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Mountain View Elementary School
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Monticello High School
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Sunrise Elementary (formerly Burnley-Moran)
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Jackson Via Elementary School
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Charlottesville High School
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McIntire Park
More Family-Friendly Festivities (with Fireworks!)
1. Boar's Head Independence Day Celebration | July 4th
The party kicks off at 5PM (parking lot opens at 3PM), with live music from Koda & Marie of Chamomile and Whiskey & Friends at 5PM, and fireworks at 9PM! There will be food and drinks available for purchase for all ages, including Boar's Head Food Truck, Farmacy, Vision BBQ and It's Poppin' Time. Lawn game include cornhole, ladder golf, and table games! All tickets for this event must be purchased in advance. Availability is limited. No tickets will be sold day-of at the door.
2. Scottsville Independence Day Parade and Celebration | July 4th
With the parade in the morning, music, food, and games in the afternoon, and fireworks over the James River in the evening, there will be a strong sense of small-town warmth and “slice of Americana” throughout the entire event. Everyone is guaranteed to have a great time! Parade kicks off at 9AM with fireworks to follow at dusk.
3. Crozet Independence Day Parade and Celebration | July 4th
The Crozet Independence Day Celebration will feature a parade and fireworks like in years past. This year, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the nation, there will be T-shirts for sale, as well as beads, bubbles, and multi-color light sticks! Check back later for more details on the schedule.