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Special Event: Fourth at the Fort
Join us for the start of America’s
250th year in the place that made it possible.
An all-day 4th of July event featuring the largest Fort Monroe family-friendly fireworks show to date! Come celebrate America Made In Virginia.
Date
July 4th, 2025
Place
Fort Monroe at Hampton, VA
Time
8:45 AM – 9:30 PM
Cost
Free to the public (Free parking!)
Hosted by
Fourth At The Fort
No state played a more important role in the creation of our country than Virginia. Come honor your state and your country with us.
Event Schedule
Fort Monroe | 8:45 AM – 9:30 PM
An all day Semiquincentennial Anniversary program that will engage, educate, and inspire citizens of all ages.
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Morning Events
Parade Ground | 8:45 AM – 3:00 PM
Kick off this historic Fourth with a Civic Celebration like no other.
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Out of Many, One Festival
Patton Street Park | 3:00 – 7:00 PM
Enjoy family-friendly activities, demonstrations, and interactive entertainment from all over the state.
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Expressions of Virginia Area
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History of Virginia Area
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A Taste of Virginia Area
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Free to Dream Grand Ceremony
The Main Stage | 7:30 PM | FIREWORKS AT 9:15 PM
A star-spangled concert & fireworks display guaranteed to be one for the history books.
Virginia’s Biggest
4th of July Fireworks Show
A soaring, patriotic celebration uniting Americans from all walks of life.
Free to Dream Grand Ceremony
The Main Stage | 7:30 PM | FIREWORKS at 9:15 PM
A concert and fireworks show 250 years in the making.
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Entertainment
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The United States Air Force Heritage of America Concert Band
Major Christina Muncey, Commander
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Leah Glenn Dance Theatre
Leah Glenn, Choreographer
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Margaret Woods
“Patriotic Sing Along” | “Free to Dream” Vocalist
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“Heartbeat of Freedom” Drummers
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“Declaration of Independence” Student Readers
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And more…
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Grand Finale Fireworks
An epic American spectacle in the sky featuring drones and fireworks by Pyrotecnico.
Morning Events
Parade Ground | 8:45 AM – 3:00 PM
Start this important day with a civic celebration. Discover the revolutionary spirit that led to the birth of a new nation and engage in fun-filled activities that celebrate the people and traditions of Virginia.
Expressions of Virginia Area
All Day Tent | 3:00–7:00 PM
Visit the Art Tent and the Expressions of Freedom Stage for “A Salute to the Arts” featuring hands-on art activities, performances, and a community discussion panel.
History of Virginia Area
Between Patton Rd & The Beach | 3:00 – 8:00 PM
Explore Virginia through engaging exhibits featuring the state’s best museums, cities & counties, communities, universities, Made In Virginia craft vendors, health & wellness and outdoor & nature organizations.
A Taste of Virginia Area
Fenwick Road | 3:00–8:30 PM
Come taste Virginia’s finest food, craft beers, and treats to celebrate July 4th.
Featured Speakers
Geoff Bennett
Grand Ceremony Host
Co-anchor of PBS News Hour
Bobby Scott
State Congressman
Jimmy Gray
Mayor of Hampton
Carly Fiorina
VA250, National Honorary Chair
Dr. Anthony Parent
Professor Emeritus Wake Forest University
Senator Mamie Locke
VA250, Vice Chair
Chair of African American Advisory Council
James Madison
Colonial Williamsburg Nation Builder
As portrayed by Bryan Austin
Event Location
Fort Monroe at Hampton, VA
VA250 and partners will honor the profound historical significance of Fort Monroe and Point Comfort. Known as “Freedom’s Fortress,” Fort Monroe has been a pivotal site in American history, from the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619 to the Civil War’s “Contraband of War” decision, which set the stage for the Emancipation Proclamation.
Event Location
Fort Monroe at Hampton, VA
VA250 and partners will honor the profound historical significance of Fort Monroe and Point Comfort. Known as “Freedom’s Fortress,” Fort Monroe has been a pivotal site in American history, from the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619 to the Civil War’s “Contraband of War” decision, which set the stage for the Emancipation Proclamation.
Videos
America. Made In Virginia. (1 minute video)
The VA250 Mobile Museum Experience (1 minute video)
Frequently Asked Questions
Will beaches be open?
No. Beaches will be closed for the fireworks show.
What are the directions for the day of the event?
There are only 2 ways on and off the island.
Will the roads be open all night?
No, at 8:30 PM roads will be closed for fireworks.
What time should we head over?
If you’re not on 64 making your way in by 6:00 PM you are not likely to make it there before roads close by 8:30 PM
Fort Monroe