Richmond, VA (PRWEB) June 27, 2013
“For families seeking an affordable, all-American Fourth of July vacation, look no further than Virginia,” states the Virginia Tourism Corporation. Long-hailed The Mother of Presidents, Virginia is a leading destination for celebrating the birth of our nation with historic hot spots, including Monticello, Mount Vernon and Yorktown, as well as informative tours and reenactments offered state-wide.
The Commonwealth of Virginia is preparing for Fourth of July Travel to increase based on the American Express Travel & Saving Tracker finding that 31 percent of Americans are planning to escape for the holiday.
From festivals and parades to firework displays and live musical performances, Virginia has all the resources for an ideal Fourth of July getaway. The state is within a days drive or less of 60 percent of the U.S. population, creating an unbeatable weekend retreat for American travelers. Additional Fourth of July festivals, events and packages may be found at http://www.Virginia.org/July4th.
Independence Day Celebration at Monticello Charlottesville
July 4, 2013
Enjoy Fourth of July merriments at Monticellos 51st annual Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony the oldest continuous naturalization ceremony outside of a courtroom in the United States. Musical icon Dave Matthews of the Dave Matthews Band will be the featured speaker at the event, held on the West Lawn at Monticello. The ceremony starts at 9 a.m. and concludes at 10:30 a.m. No charge however reservations are required.
An American Celebration at Mount Vernon Fairfax
July 4, 2013
Mount Vernon salutes the nations first commander-in-chief George Washington with a dazzling display of daytime fireworks over the Potomac River. The event also includes a naturalization ceremony for new citizens, military reenactments, a special wreath-laying ceremony, birthday cake for all and “General and Mrs. Washington.” Festivities begin at 8 a.m. Admission: $ 17 for adults; $ 8 per child; five and under; no charge.
Independence Day Celebration at Thomas Jeffersons Poplar Forest Forest
July 4, 2013
History buffs enjoy an afternoon rediscovering Thomas Jeffersons passion for Americas freedom during the 28th Independence Day Celebration at Poplar Forest. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and provides fun for all ages. Children experience 18th century lifestyle through pony rides and popular games of the generation including stick horse races, sack races, rolling hoops and tug of war. A Declaration of Independence speech will be delivered from Thomas Jeffersons octagonal house followed by juggling, rope walking, drums performances and musical delights from the Jefferson era. Adult admission $ 8; children 15 and under; no charge for admission.
Valley Fourth Harrisonburg
July 4, 2013
Three exciting events take place in Downtown Harrisonburg on the Fourth. Head to Turner Pavilion & Park for an early morning charity run through scenic Shenandoah Valley, followed by the first annual Grillin by the Pavilion cook-off featuring craft beers, local wines, live music and fireworks. Families will enjoy Court Square, with activities including a dunk tank, face painting, puppet shows and local food and craft purveyors. Over on Main Street travelers indulge in the Summer in America Food Tours, featuring tasty food shops and local businesses offering samples of the states fine wines, craft beers and culinary treats. Out-of-town visitors may reserve accommodations at Harrisonburgs Comfort Inn, starting at $ 72.
4th of July Stars in the Sky Newport News
July 4, 2013
Virginia Peninsulas biggest 4th of July party draws more than 20,000 people to Victory Landing Park for live music, obstacle courses and rides, and food from local vendors. The waterside park offers remarkable views of the James River and when night falls, the stage lights up with a lively concert and fireworks display performed by internationally award-winning company, Pyrotecnico. Admission and parking is free.
Balloon Rally and 4th of July Celebration Lexington
July 4-6, 2013
This popular three-day event features piloted and tethered hot air balloon rides, live musical entertainment, children’s activities, antique appraisals, a classic car show, festive food and a dazzling fireworks display. Piloted hot air balloon rides are limited and must be reserved in advance. No reservations required for tethered balloon rides. No charge for admission.
Liberty Celebration Yorktown
July 4-6, 2013
Celebrate Americas birthday in Yorktown, the site of one of the most important battles in the American War for Independence and an ideal place to salute the countrys freedom. Guests experience military drills and role-playing demonstrations and view a rare broadside printing of the Declaration of Independence dating to July 1776. Admission rates are $ 9.75 for adults; $ 5.50 for children ages six through 12; children under six; no charge. With a combination ticket to Jamestown Settlement, visitors save 20 percent. Combination tickets are priced at $ 20.50 for adults and $ 10.50 for children ages six through 12. No charge for parking along with shuttles to historic Yorktown and Williamsburg area attractions.
Fourth of July Jubilee Wintergreen
July 4-7, 2013
Kick off the holiday at Wintergreen Resorts festive block party featuring live music and entertainment, arts and crafts, movies under the stars, chairlift rides at the Blue Ridge Express, family-friendly games and spectacular Fourth of July fireworks that light up the mountain. No charge for resort guests.
Love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation. Visit Virginia.org for more trip ideas or call 1-800-VISITVA for a free Virginia is for Lovers travel guide. Stay connected at facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or follow on Twitter at Twitter.com/VisitVirginia.