Hear ye, hear ye! We’re coming up on one of the biggest celebrations of the year: Independence Day! In a place like Yorktown, the options can be overwhelming, so we’re here to help with our list of do’s and don’ts for celebrating and enjoying the holiday…
Do: rise early. Most everyone looks forward to the afternoon cookout or evening entertainment on the 4th of July, but here in Yorktown there’s celebration all day long! The Patriotic Parade begins at 9:00 a.m. and trails from Water St. to Main, filled with live music from military bands and the Fifes and Drums of Yorktown, it’s a beautiful way to begin the holiday. Or, if you’re a super early riser, get the best view of the town in the Independence Day 8K & 5K Run/Walk at 8:00, and then maybe factor in a nap in the afternoon!
Don’t: forget sunscreen! With so much going on throughout the day, it can be easy to forget how much time you can spend outside. So to prevent the July 5th sunburn, give your skin some good ol’ SPF at the beginning of the day (and maybe reapply depending on the sun and surf). A hat always helps protect your face as well, but we’d suggest a floppy or baseball hat over the classic tri-corner!
Do: bring the family! Down by the Riverwalk will be all kinds of family activities starting at 1:00, complete with face painting, games, and a hot dog eating contest. Plus, all the beach access, beautiful trails, and food trucks (kettle corn, anyone?) make for plenty of fun for adults and kiddos.
Don’t: Forget the reason for the holiday. It’s beautiful to be able to celebrate our independence in a place so ingrained in the nation’s history. Starting at 7:00 at the Riverwalk Landing Performance Stage, there will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence, an acknowledgement of the original 13 colonies, and a bell ringing ceremony. Take the time to cherish our history and our freedom amidst all the activity and sunshine.
Do: bring an umbrella or poncho. The forecast is still a bit hazy but is calling for a few broken showers as of now. And, as we all know, Virginia’s weather can be unpredictable. It’s best if you can find (or carry) some covering and wait it out, most summer showers leave just as quickly as they come.
Don’t: miss the fireworks! This incredible fireworks display is about 15 minutes long and can be seen from just about anywhere on the waterfront. It starts at 9:00 but the key is to be early. The Yorktown Battlefield will be the primary parking spot for the evening’s festivities, and will unfortunately close at capacity. It could be a bit of a walk, but totally worth it!
We hope this helps you enjoy the most of the holiday with those you love. Let us know how you spend it!
