Beginning at 9:15 p.m. on July 4th, fireworks will light up the sky over the York River in an annual community tradition. The best places to view the show are along the Yorktown waterfront and at the Victory Monument on Main Street. Due to the expected crowds, there are policies and procedures in place to make it an enjoyable experience for all those who visit.
Free parking for the July 4th evening activities, including the fireworks show, is on the Yorktown Battlefield located at the corner of Cook Road and Ballard Street. Battlefield parking opens at 4 p.m. and closes once it reaches capacity. Guests are encouraged to arrive early. It is important to note that the walk from the Yorktown Battlefield parking area to the waterfront is approximately one mile and includes hills and uneven terrain. Please note that the Colonial Parkway leading into Yorktown is currently closed due to maintenance.
At the conclusion of the fireworks, Yorktown will be temporarily closed to incoming traffic, including any pick-up services, so that Sheriff’s Deputies may assist vehicles in safely exiting Yorktown. Depending on the size of the crowd, the process should take approximately one hour.
Those requiring handicapped parking and special assistance should report to Yorktown Middle School from 4 to 7 p.m., and must be checked in no later than 7 p.m. to take advantage of this service. Transportation is provided for the disabled or special needs individual and one friend or family member as escort. Drop-off is at Riverwalk Landing, approximately 200 yards from the performance area. Due to limited shuttle capacity, all other individuals in the party will need to park at the Yorktown Battlefield.
It’s important to note that once the shuttle is parked at the waterfront at 7:30 p.m., it will remain there until after the fireworks—with the first trip back to York Middle School beginning at 9:45 p.m. Return trips take place until 10:30 p.m. Each person must possess a pass to board the shuttle.
While visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers, alcoholicbeverages are prohibited. There will be several Yorktown restaurants open for business, and several to-go options at the Patriotic Food Pavilion, which will be open from 3 to 9:15 p.m. The food trucks and vendors set up at the Patriotic Food Pavilion on Riverwalk Landing include local favorites: Coastal Thirst, Kona Ice, Boyd’s Tasty Dogs, Island Time Delights, Pop’s Kettle Corn, and Snack Attack.
The free air-conditioned Yorktown Trolley runs from approximately 10 a.m. (following the parade) until 5 p.m.
Evening visitors can enjoy the following activities:
7 p.m.
- The Fifes and Drums of York Town Performance
- The Reading of the Declaration of Independence
- Sounds of Liberty Bell Ringing Ceremony
- Location: Riverwalk Landing Stage ·
8 p.m.
- Super Jazz Band Concert featuring Conni Ironmonger
- Location: Riverwalk Landing Stage ·
9:15 p.m.
- Spectacular Fireworks Display
- Location: Over York River – visible from Yorktown Waterfront & Victory Monument
Other Important Notes: Barbecue grills are limited to the National Park Service Beach Picnic Area with designated areas for the disposal of hot coals. The Beach Picnic Area is open to the public on July 4, but closed to all vehicles the entire day. It is also recommended that pet owners leave their pets at home during the fireworks, as the heat, crowds, music, and loud noise can be upsetting for many animals.
Additional information:
- www.visityorktown.org·
- Facebook, TikTok, & Instagram: @visityorktown·
- #visityorktown and #york757
