As Independence Day approaches, Virginia Beach is preparing for an unforgettable Fourth of July weekend filled with festivities, fireworks, and fun for the entire family. With the holiday falling on a Friday this year, locals and visitors alike have the perfect opportunity to enjoy an extended celebration along the beautiful Virginia Beach coastline. From beachfront festivities to cultural experiences and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone during this star-spangled weekend.
Independence Day Celebrations (July 4th)
Start your Fourth of July with a hearty breakfast at Doc Taylor’s, a beloved local eatery just steps from the Oceanfront. This former doctor’s residence now serves up delicious Bloody Marys, mimosas, and comfort food classics like chorizo biscuits and gravy or fluffy buttermilk pancakes. After fueling up, claim your spot on the sand for a perfect beach day along the Atlantic.
When lunchtime arrives, head to Chix on the Beach for fresh seafood or stop by Waterman’s Surfside Grille for their famous Orange Crush cocktail—a Virginia Beach staple that perfectly complements the holiday spirit.
As evening approaches, the real excitement begins with the Stars & Stripes Celebration, Virginia Beach’s premier Independence Day event. From 7-10:30 p.m., enjoy free live music and family-friendly entertainment across three locations: 17th Street Park, the 24th Street Stage, and Neptune’s Park on 31st Street. The spectacular fireworks display launches at 9:30 p.m. from a barge offshore, creating a dazzling show visible all along the beachfront.
For those seeking an alternative celebration, Mount Trashmore hosts its own Independence Day event, starting at 8 p.m., featuring food trucks, live music, and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Please note that parking at Mount Trashmore costs $20 per vehicle, and the lots fill quickly—Edwin Drive closes once capacity is reached.
Weekend Activities Beyond Fireworks (July 5-6)
After the thrilling excitement of the Fourth, continue your holiday weekend at Virginia Beach’s Town Center on Friday. Spend the day refreshing your summer wardrobe at popular retailers like lululemon, Free People, and Anthropologie. The area boasts an impressive selection of dining options to satisfy any craving—from craft brews at Three Notch’d Brewing Company to upscale Mexican cuisine at Cantina Laredo or Southern comfort food at Tupelo Honey.
Cap off your evening with belly laughs at the Funny Bone Comedy Club or take in a performance at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, offering the perfect blend of entertainment after a day of retail therapy.
Saturday invites you to immerse yourself in the creative pulse of Virginia Beach at the ViBe Creative District. Begin your morning with a farm-to-table breakfast at Commune or grab a quick bite and refreshing iced coffee at Three Ships Coffee before exploring the Old Beach Farmers Market. This local destination showcases artisans selling everything from seasonal produce and baked goods to handcrafted jewelry and clothing.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the self-guided Mural Walking Tour through the district, featuring vibrant works by local artists, or the thought-provoking exhibits at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). The district’s artistic energy and community atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to the previous day’s beachfront celebrations.
Outdoor Experiences and Wind-Down Options (July 6-8)
As the weekend continues, venture to Pungo on Sunday morning for a Southern-inspired breakfast at The Bee & The Biscuit before setting out on a berry-picking adventure. Summer brings blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries to the various You-Pick Farms in the area, offering a delightful hands-on experience for visitors of all ages.
After gathering your sweet bounty, expand your horizons with a visit to the Military Aviation Museum, where you can explore an impressive collection of WWI and WWII aircraft and learn about the brave individuals who piloted them. For afternoon relaxation, head to Little Island Park in Sandbridge, where you can lounge on the beach, stroll along the pier, or rent fat tire bikes for a sandy ride along the shore. End your day with dinner and a signature Baja Sunset cocktail at Baja Restaurant while witnessing nature’s own colorful display across the evening sky.
Before departing on Monday, make the most of your final hours with a rejuvenating morning hike through First Landing State Park. This natural area features preserved marshland dotted with Bald Cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, creating a serene backdrop for reflection on your holiday weekend. Grab a Nitro Cold Brew to-go from nearby American Brew to fuel your journey home.
The park’s peaceful trails and the refreshing coastal breeze provide the perfect wind-down to an action-packed Independence Day weekend. Whether you’re a local or visitor, these final moments in Virginia Beach’s natural beauty will leave you with lasting memories and perhaps plans for your next visit to this lively coastal community.
