The coronavirus has thrown everything in limbo and as a precaution, several localities have canceled their public firework displays opting instead for virtual Independence Day-themed activities or small in- person gatherings.
Here’s a list to help you and your family celebrate the Fourth of July during the pandemic.
Liberty Celebration at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Saturday, July 4 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Enjoy artillery demonstrations, learn about the nation’s founders and more. The activities include the July 1776 broadcast of the Declaration of Independence, “Liberty Fever” a museum film and outdoor displays of Continental Army camps. Visitors can also check out the “Forgotten Soldier” exhibit about African American soldiers which has been extended to July 8.
Tickets cost $15.25 for adults, $7.75 for children ages 6-12 and children younger than 6 are free. Free shuttle service is available and Historic Triangle residents including college students get free admission with proof of residency. For more information, visit the museum’s website.
July 4 celebration at Colonial Williamsburg
Saturday, July 4 at multiple times.
Listen to a Reading of the Declaration of Independence, watch a theatrical performance of “Created Equal,” African-American perspectives on the Declaration of Independence or even get some shopping done at the auction.
A reflection with a bell ringing will commemorate the 244th anniversary of the United States at 5 p.m. For more information about July 4 events, visit the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation website.
“Celebrate together, at home”
Some July 4 events have turned virtual this year.
The city of Newport News is celebrating Independence Day with virtual events including a Slapnation concert at Ella Fitzgerald Theater and a fireworks display live streamed via YouTube. The concert is at multiple times and the fireworks display is at 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.
There is also an aerial flyover celebration and families can pick up American flags and 4th of July yard signs at the Denbigh, Brittingham-Midtown and Doris Miller community centers on July 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fort Monroe virtual Fourth of July special
The city of Hampton and Fort Monroe are hosting a virtual celebration with music from the U.S. Army TRADOC Band and fireworks displays. View the programming on July 4 from 7 p.m. here. Those who love fitness might want to check out the Fort Monroe Freedom 5K or 1.3-Mile Rampart Run which ends July 4.
National virtual events
While the coronavirus continues to limit what celebrations can happen in-person, it also means that people can participate in virtual events around the country.
Here’s a list of national Fourth of July celebrations happening virtually:
Philadelphia: Wawa Welcome America, the city’s annual July Fourth Festival, will bring more than 50 virtual events, including a live broadcast of the grand fireworks show from 2019. Events can be streamed online.
New York City: The Macy’s fireworks show will recap a series of fireworks displays from the week leading into the holiday on Saturday at 8 p.m. on NBC.
Washington, D.C.: Viewers can watch the traditional Capitol West Lawn fireworks display on PBS, Facebook or YouTube at 8 p.m. on Saturday. The event will be hosted by John Stamos and Vanessa Williams, with performances from Patti LaBelle and Renee Fleming.
Boston: the Boston Pops will present a “Salute to Our Heroes,” a tribute to workers on the frontline of the pandemic. The performance will air at 8 p.m. on Saturday on Bloomberg TV and Bloomberg.com.
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