Independence Day is almost here and it’s time to start finding fun festivities to fill your day. The Declaration of Independence may have been signed in Pennsylvania, but no one celebrates 4th of July like Virginia does!
The Revolutionary War came to its end in coastal Virginia, the nation’s capital is just up the road and the Commonwealth has produced more presidents than any other state in the U.S. When it comes time to wave a flag and set off some fireworks, cities like Norfolk are ready to go.
This year the Great American Picnic &Fireworks is coming back to Town Point Park in Downtown Norfolk.
This family-friendly event features classic picnic foods like hot dogs and hamburgers, military brass bands and of course, fireworks.
The star-spangled celebration starts at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4 and will wrap up at 10 p.m. The fireworks display is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. which means you’ll end your evening on a high note!
The red, white and blue pops of fireworks will be extra scenic flying over the beautiful Elizabeth River.
CityParking is a big fan of this annual event and has put together some tips for your evening:
- Leave your four-legged friends at home, as the event is only open to service animals
- The event is free to attend and food, beverages, and other goodies are available for purchases from vendors
- Do not bring any alcohol into the park
- Don’t ride your skates, skateboards or bike through the park, but you can use them to get there
- Feel free to bring a chair or blankets to watch the fireworks!
- Pack plenty of water for you and your family
- Stay home if you’re feeling sick or have been exposed to COVID-19
- Porta potties are available throughout the park
- Plot your parking out beforehand
- Make a day out of it and explore Downtown Norfolk when you’re not at the picnic!
Awesome Attractions to Check Out Before or After the Fireworks
Nauticus Museum
Norfolk’s Nauticus Museum and Battleship Wisconsin are a great place to start off your holiday. Visitors to this maritime museum can learn about the history of the American Navy, what lies deep in the waters surrounding Norfolk, how the seaport operates and more. You can explore an actual battleship built in 1988, pet a horseshoe crab or get close to a shark.
The museum opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. making it an easy and fun addition to your day in Downtown Norfolk.
The Waterside District
Norfolk introduced the Waterside District with fun in mind. You can grab delicious food, drink craft beers, ride the bull at PBR, grab a sweet treat and more. Visitors can check out places like Cogan’s Pizza, BlueMoon TapHouse, Starr Hill Market Bar and Stripers.
The party in the Waterside District runs day and night. The party in the Waterside District runs day and night. Check out Waterside before or after the picnic for more downtown dining and entertainment options!
Pagoda and Oriental Garden
Before you head to the busy Town Point Park, you can take a peaceful stroll right down the street. The Oriental Garden is tucked away along Norfolk’s Harbour Street.
The Pagoda building was built in the late 1980s as a gift from the Taiwan Provincial Government and is now a restaurant. But no worries if you aren’t hungry, you can explore the harborside gardens surrounding the Pagoda.
Use City Parking to Make Your 4th of July Extra Easy
When you’re trying to enjoy your holiday weekend, you don’t want to worry about moving your car every hour or searching desperately for street parking. That’s why CityParking has you covered for the 4th of July and every other day of the year.
Drop your car in one of our Downtown Norfolk parking lots and spend the rest of the day exploring the area and everything it has to offer.
If you’re spending your evening at the Great American Picnic try these nearby lots:
Lot 500 – Plume Street Parking Deck featuring 2-9 hour rates
Lot 333 – Granby St. lot featuring 1-12 hour rates
We hope you have a great 4th of July in Norfolk and come back to visit soon!