Active Woman Traveler

In Richmond, Virginia, a city of history where new traditions arise to join the old, Independence Day fireworks are no exception. This year, joining the long-standing favorites is Brewdependence Day at the city's new craft brewery.

Brewdependence Day at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery

Beginning at 5pm on July 4, this great new locally focused brewery will host music, local food vendors from Pizza Tonight, Station 2, Sausage Craft, and ice cream made with the brewery's new strawberry beer. In addition to celebrating American freedom, the event celebrates the new state law that gives liberty for Virginia breweries to sell glasses of beer on site. To commemorate the law, the brewery is introducing a beer called SB 604, an American Special Bitter session ale. There's no entry fee to attend, but take your seat--i.e., chairs or blankets. Fireworks from The Diamond, home of the Richmond Flying Squirrels minor league baseball, will light the nearby sky. Learn more at the Hardywood Park web site.

Though the Flying Squirrels have only been in Richmond for three years, they continue the fireworks tradition. They will feature 3 nights of fireworks July 4-6. Of course, you get the best seat by purchasing a ticket to the game, but you can also enjoy the show from the surrounding neighborhoods, as many Richmonders do. Visit the Squirrels minor league baseball web site for details.

Dogwood Dell

This isn't a Richmond tradition simply because it's been around--it's worth every memory. Go early afternoon on July 4 to get seats in the amphitheater, or simply find a grassy spot in in the park. Music starts at 5:30, with Carillon bells at 7, performed by Larry Robinson, the city's carilloneur for over 50 years. The Richmond Concert Band begins at 7:30. Between the band's rousing patriotic music and the cannons that mark the start of the fireworks at dusk, American pride swells the crowds. The event is free, but take your seat. Visit Byrd Park online to learn more.

RVA Fireworks on the James

Brown's Island is the site for youthful entertainment, beginning at 7:30pm, and fireworks, all on July 3. This year's sky explosions are by Grucci, allegedly one of the world's top names in fireworks displays. The event is free, but take your seat. Build your anticipation at the Fireworks on the James web page.

Genworth Financial Concert and Fireworks

The world headquarters of this financial security company is host to children's activities, a concert by the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band, and fireworks. The event is free. Genworth is pleased to give you further details on their 29th Annual Celebrate Freedom web page.