Your Insider’s Guide: The 10 Best Places to See 4th of July Fireworks in Northern Virginia (2025)

If you’ve lived here a while, you know the 4th of July in Northern Virginia is basically our Super Bowl of summer: small-town parades, food trucks serving funnel cakes, kids in red-white-and-blue face paint, and the grand finale—fireworks that light up the night sky. And if you’re new? Welcome! I’m here to make sure you skip the trial and error and go straight to the best experiences.

As your local real estate expert who’s watched more than a few of these shows (and probably knows the best spots better than I know my own kitchen), here’s my updated list of the 10 absolute must-see fireworks shows in Northern Virginia for 2025—with real-world tips so you look like a seasoned local your first time out.

1. City of Fairfax Independence Day Celebration (Fairfax City)
Big crowds, classic charm, and fireworks you’ll feel in your bones. The day kicks off with a morning parade, and by evening, the community gathers at Fairfax High School. Pro tip: the 50-yard line gives the best panoramic view of the 9:30 PM fireworks—bring a blanket and claim your spot early!
Check for 2025 updates.

2. Leesburg’s Ida Lee Park Fireworks (Leesburg, Loudoun County)
Leesburg’s show is so big, it feels like the whole county’s invited. Start with the morning parade downtown, then head to Ida Lee Park in the evening. Insider tip: near the playground area offers an elevated view and quick bathroom access. Fireworks blast off around 9:30 PM.
Leesburg’s latest info.

3. Manassas Celebrate America Festival (Manassas, Prince William County)
A vibrant street festival and fireworks you’ll never forget. Carnival rides, live music, and mouthwatering fair food fill Historic Downtown Manassas before the 9:15 PM fireworks light up the night. Park near the VRE station or ride the train if it’s running.
Event details here.

4. Herndon 4th of July Celebration (Herndon, Fairfax County)
Like a small-town block party, but with thousands of your new friends. Head to Bready Park at 6:30 PM for live music and family fun. Fireworks start at 9:30 PM—locals know the baseball backstop area offers the best view.
More info.

5. Great Falls Village 4th of July (Great Falls, Fairfax County)
Quintessential Americana with horses, parades, and fireworks. The morning parade feels straight out of a movie, and evening fireworks at Turner Farm Park start around 9 PM—set up near the observatory hill for sweeping views.
Celebrate Great Falls details.

6. Vienna Fireworks at Yeonas Park (Vienna, Fairfax County)
The local secret for early celebrations and hometown vibes. Usually held on July 2 or 3, so you can celebrate before everyone else. Grab your spot on the ballfields early; fireworks launch at 9:30 PM.
Vienna’s updates.

7. Lake Fairfax Park Fireworks (Reston, Fairfax County)
An all-day adventure ending with fireworks reflecting on the lake. Picnic, splash at the Water Mine, then watch fireworks around 9:15 PM. Pro tip: sit near the carousel hill for stunning reflections. Bring a flashlight for the trek back to your car, after the finale.
Lake Fairfax info.

8. Workhouse Arts Center Fireworks Festival (Lorton, Fairfax County)
Where art, music, and fireworks collide for an unforgettable night. This pre-4th event is perfect for an early celebration, with live bands, food trucks, and a massive fireworks show—arrive early or get a parking pass to avoid long walks.
Workhouse event details.

9. Franklin Park Fireworks (Purcellville, Loudoun County)
A laid-back country evening with music, BBQ, and epic fireworks. Spread your blanket in the natural amphitheater, catch live music, and enjoy fireworks around 9:15 PM. Early birds score the best spots along the front fence.
Loudoun PRCS updates.

10. Great Meadow “The Big Boom” (The Plains, near Fauquier/Prince William)
Tailgating under the stars with one of NoVA’s biggest shows. Arrive early (gates open midafternoon) to set up your tailgate; fireworks start at 9 PM. Dress up your car— yes, there’s a prize for the most patriotic ride!
Great Meadow event info.

A Neighborly Note from Me:
I’ve spent years exploring every one of these celebrations with my family, friends, and clients—and I can tell you: there’s no better way to fall in love with our communities than experiencing them lit up on the 4th of July.

And if you’re looking for more than fireworks—like the best neighborhoods to call home or what it’s like to live in these amazing places—I’d love to chat. I’m here to help you love where you live, whether it’s your first home or your forever home.