Where to celebrate Independence Day in Northern Virginia

The Washington D.C. Metro area has many celebrations, events and activities surrounding July 4. Last week I did a post outlining some of the things to do downtown on Independence Day and today I thought I'd highlight events going on in Northern Virginia.

There are a number of parades, fireworks and community celebrations happening throughout NoVa.

Photo credit: Leigh Goessl 

Fairfax City holds its annual Independence Day parade every year. The parade route goes through Old Town with local events to follow. Later on, head on over to Fairfax High School, to enjoy the musical celebration with the fireworks show beginning at dark. I've not attended this celebration just yet, but sounds like a nice day.

"Celebrate America" in Old Town Manassas takes place every year on July 4 with live music, dancing, food and carnival rides for the kids, along with other fun. Spread lawn chairs and/or blankets out and claim a good spot for the evening's fireworks which will begin at 9:15 p.m. This is a great event!  Spectacular fireworks. We went a couple of years ago and watched them from the lawn outside the Manassas Museum and had parked just a few blocks away. 

Tractor Ride at "Celebrate America" in Manassas (2012)

Mount Vernon holds its annual July 4 celebration, "An American Celebration". Come explore the mansion, property and have birthday cake to celebrate America's birthday. Daytime fireworks usually begin at 1 p.m. 

There will be living history reenactors and patriotic music, along with a host of other events throughout the day.  As customary, a special naturalization ceremony for the 100 newest U.S. citizens will be held at 11 a.m.

Chances are you might see the General himself at some point during the day.

Vienna's annual fireworks take place on or around July 4th with music before the show at Yeonas Park. As customary, fireworks will take place at Southside Park. There are usually fun events scheduled throughout the day from noon until 5 p.m. For a full schedule of events, visit the official web page.

Herndon holds its annual community celebration on July 4 with entertainment, face painting, rides and games. At 9:30 fireworks, choreographed with music, start.

Other fireworks celebrations are also being held across the region including Reston (Lake Fairfax Park), McLean (Langley High School Stadium), Falls Church (George Mason High School) and Leesburg (day full of events here).

The following week, Alexandria has its annual event from 7:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. celebrating both America's and Alexandria's birthday with cake and family-fun events. There is usually music before the show and fireworks generally start about 9:30 p.m. Location: Oronoco Bay Park, 100 Madison Ave.

Where will you be spending July 4th this year?