Guide to July 4 festivities in Cville

 

Every year, I look forward to July 4 for its food, friends and fireworks. For many towns, it is a holiday that neighbors and strangers celebrate together with festivals, parades, contests, concerts and the big finale fireworks show.

This will be my third July 4 in Cville, coincidentally home to the author of the Declaration of Independence. The first was spent up at Wintergreen, and the second at home with friends. Previously, I’ve celebrated our nation’s independence with the notorious Block Island, RI parade where shops, restaurants and families compete for best float. My favorite July 4 has got to be in Harbor Springs, MI where there is a hilarious dog / owner look alike contest followed by fireworks over the lake.

I’m looking for something equally as lively this year, and here’s what I’ve heard is happening around town…

Naturalization Ceremony and Speaker at Monticello. Witness the ceremony of becoming a natural citizen. And hear remarks from a renowned documentary filmmaker. This event begins at 10AM and is free to the public, so you might consider this to start the holiday! More details.

Celebrate America’s Independence at Ash-Lawn. Later in the afternoon, you could stop by Ash Lawn to experience life on a 19th century plantation. 1-5pm. Bring your lunch to picnic on the lawn, or, on the way, stop by Kluge Farmhouse for a gourmet cheese plate  (my fave!) and a bottle of Viognier. Later in the night, there is a Broadway-themed performance scheduled with the Ash Lawn Opera.

Family Fun at McIntire Park. From 5pm - 9pm, many of our community will be celebrating at McIntire Park where you’ll find amusment rides, music, food and fireworks after dark.

Red, White, and Listen to the Blues at Oakencroft Vineyards. From 11 - 5, you can stroll through the vineyards, taste Oakencroft wine, nibble on light fare (you can also bring your own picnic) and enjoy blues music. $10

Rhythm on the River in Scottsville. I hear about this one every year, and it sounds like a blast. This year, the 10th season, Jackass Flats (awesome bluegrass band) headlines the event. Looks like you can set up your own picnic and pal around until the fireworks show over the James River.

Red, White and the Blue Ridge at King Family Vineyards. You are guaranteed tremendous views at this vineyard, which will be serving up hot dogs and wine to celebrate the 4th.

Wintergreen’s July Jubilee. I can attest that this is a fun event for families. I still remember that the hot dogs and hamburgers were particularly good. I suggest wearing hiking clothes if you make your way to this event, which features not only the scenery and trails of Wintergreen resort but also live music, an annual arts & crafts show and a fireworks show set to music. If I were to attend again, I would consider overnight accomodations and maybe a July 5 visit to the Wintergreen Spa

This is quite a list, but I know I must be missing something. Please send in anything I’m missing.

I can’t help but be somewhat disappointed that there isn’t a parade.