Join in the Fourth of July fireworks and related Independence Day special events and celebrations in the Roanoke region of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.
Since July 4th falls on a Thursday this year, there are many fireworks displays and celebrations taking place throughout the week. There are several days of fireworks displays, patriotic events, and family-friendly festivals, carnivals, and fairs that are perfect for a summer vacation.
The following is a guide to 4th of July fireworks events and other 2024 celebrations in Blue Ridge, Virginia.
REMARK: All times and events are subject to change, especially when it comes to cancellations or postponements due to weather conditions. We will try to keep this list as up to date as possible, but we recommend that you check the event websites and social media pages for the most up to date information.
Fireworks shows
Franklin County Independence Festival – June 28
Franklin County High School
Franklin County will host its annual Independence Festival and fireworks show on Friday, June 28, at Cy Dillon Football Stadium on the campus of Franklin County High School. The free event is sponsored by the Rocky Mount Rotary Club and features live crafts, entertainment, food, games and an exciting fireworks display.
Details of the Independence Festival > | Franklin County Accommodations >
Independence Celebration at Mountain Lake – July 2
Bergmeer Lodge
Pack your lawn chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy fireworks at Mountain Lake Lodge. There will be a special BBQ on the front lawn at 5:30 PM, live music starts at 6:30 PM and fireworks start at 9:30 PM
Independence Celebration at Mountain Lake >
Salem Fair – July 4th
Salem Civic Center
Watching fireworks light up the sky above the Salem Fair is one of the best ways to celebrate Independence Day in Blue Ridge, Virginia. The fair will be open and will feature all the signature games, entertainment, and delicious food. The July 4th schedule includes live music from Creedence Clearwater Recital at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.
NOTE: The 2024 Salem Fair is open July 3-14.
Salem Fair Website > | Accommodations in Salem >
Buchanan Community Carnival Fireworks – July 4th and 6th
City of Buchanan
The Buchanan Community Carnival began in 1953 and today remains one of the signature events of the summer in Botetourt County. On July 4, the Carnival opens after the city’s Independence Day Parade and you can enjoy a fun evening of games, food and entertainment, ending with a fireworks show. There will also be fireworks on Saturday, July 6.
PLEASE NOTE: The 2024 Buchanan Community Carnival is open June 27 through July 6 (closed June 30).
Buchanan Carnival Details > | Accommodations in Botetourt County >
City of Vinton 4th of July Celebration – 4th of July
Vinton War Memorial
The Town of Vinton will host its annual 4th of July celebration on the front lawn of the Vinton War Memorial. The free event will run from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and will feature music, food trucks and other activities. The fireworks show will begin around 9:30 p.m.
Fireworks at the Vinton War Memorial > | City of Vinton >
Freedom Festival 2024 – July 5
River’s Edge Park
PLAY Roanoke will host the City of Roanoke Fireworks and Festival on Friday, July 5 at River’s Edge Park. The free, family-friendly event offers lots of children’s activities and live music until 9:30 PM, when the fireworks show begins. The fireworks show will last approximately 15 minutes.
5 Points Music Sanctuary also has a great line-up of live music planned for the event as part of the popular 5PTS Outdoors series, featuring performances from Dead Reckoning and Creedence Clearwater Recital.
Freedom Festival website > | Where to Stay in Downtown Roanoke >
July 6 Fireworks, 4th of July Celebration – July 5-7
Wilderness adventure at Eagle Landing
Wilderness Adventure is hosting a weekend celebrating the holiday, with a special fireworks show on Saturday, July 6. The weekend also includes live music from Glam’r Kiti, home-cooked food, great beer and wine, camping and a variety of outdoor activities for a whole weekend of fun.
Wilderness Adventure 4th of July Celebration >
Celebrations and performances
1776 The Musical – June 27-29
Thomas Jefferson’s Cottonwood Grove
Join the revolutionary spirit with special performances by 1776 The musical in Thomas Jefferson’s cottonwood grove. The Tony Award-winning comedy tells the story of the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence and is a great way to get ready for the holidays.
1776 The musical details >
Celebrate the 4th presented by Fleet Feet – July 4th
Vinton War Memorial
Four on the Fourth is an annual fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club of SWVA, and it’s a fun tradition to start the holiday with a run or walk with family and friends. The run starts at 8am and there is also a Kids Fun Run at 9am
Four on the 4th Registration >
Buchanan 4th of July Parade – 4th of July
City of Buchanan
Set up your chairs on the charming Main Street of the City of Buchanan and be part of the annual Independence Day Parade. You’ll see festive fire trucks, floats, marching units and other organizations coming together to celebrate our country’s independence. After the parade, make your way to nearby Buchanan Town Park for the community carnival. The parade starts at 5 p.m
Buchanan parade details > | Accommodations in Botetourt County >
Poplar Forest Independence Day Celebration – July 4th
Thomas Jefferson’s Cottonwood Grove
Celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by visiting the retreat of the iconic document’s author. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest offers a day of fun colonial-style activities and entertainment, including demonstrations by local artisans and craftsmen, pony rides, archaeological exhibits, and more.
Details and tickets for the Independence Day celebration >
Other Independence Day weekend events in Blue Ridge, Virginia
Independence Day Weekend is a great time for a summer vacation to Virginia’s Blue Ridge. In addition to the fireworks shows and celebrations, there are many more fun events on the calendar that you can also watch in the region.
Below is a list of other events and things to do over the holiday weekend.
Visit our main page for a complete list of upcoming events in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Calendar of eventsand book your stay by checking out or selecting hotels and accommodation options.
You can also find out more about fun things to do in the region by following us on social media and sign up to receive our free e-newsletter.
