Stafford’s Star-Spangled 4th: Know Before You Go

A Star Spangled 250th in Stafford

Get ready to celebrate the 4th of July in Stafford as we mark a truly historic moment: the nation’s Semiquincentennial (say that five times fast).

That’s right, the nation’s 250th birthday only comes once, and Stafford is showing up ready with a day full of festivities, patriotism, and community fun to match the moment. To keep things easy and enjoyable, we’re continuing our free trolley service so you can skip the parking stress and focus on the celebration.

Here’s everything you need to know before heading out and joining the party that history 250 years in the making has been waiting for.

Trolley Stops

We’re so excited to offer the Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg’s services again this year to make traveling between celebration locations easy and stress-free. Enjoy event celebrations at each of these locations:

• George Washington’s Ferry Farm

• Downtown Fredericksburg Visitors Center

• The Eagle Parking Lot – for convenience and lighter traffic (NO 4th of July event happening at this location)

The trolley will run throughout the day’s event from 10am – 2pm, with the last call at each location at 2pm.

Parking Information

While parking will be available at all trolley stop locations, we highly encourage attendees to park at the Eagle Parking lot and downtown Fredericksburg, then take the trolley to and from each event site as minimal parking will be available at George Washington’s Ferry Farm. This will help ease the flow of traffic and ensure a smoother experience for everyone. Parking is not guaranteed at any location.

Please note, handicap parking will ONLY be available at George Washington’s Ferry Farm. Plan accordingly to accommodate your needs.

Historic Happenings

A 250th Fourth of July at Ferry Farm

Step into history with a front-row seat to America’s 250th birthday celebration on July 4, 2026 at George Washington’s Ferry Farm George Washington’s Ferry Farm, a family-friendly Americana experience set against one of the region’s most iconic Revolutionary-era landscapes. This once-in-a-lifetime Semiquincentennial celebration brings the past to life with living history demonstrations, reenactors, crafts, hands-on activities, and games for all ages, along with performances by the Wil Gravatt Band, Colonial Faire, and Riverside Theater.

With food trucks, dozens of interactive exhibits, and experiences taking place throughout the day, this event offers a great, hands-on way for families of all ages to spend the day together celebrating the spirit of independence. Tickets are $3 a person for anyone 3 and older.

Pratt Park Fireworks Spectacular

After a day full of activities, entertainment, and fun, join us for fireworks to close out the celebration! The gates will open at 6:00 PM, and fireworks will begin at 9:15 PM.

Arrive early to enjoy the festivities, including food trucks, live music, and games, and to secure your spot before the park fills up.

Please note:

Gates will close once parking is full

No entry or exit will be allowed after gates close

Trolleys will not drop off at Pratt Park

Any gate closings, weather announcements, or important info regarding the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular will be posted on our Facebook page.

Weather and Safety Tips

This 4th, temperatures are expected to be in the upper 90s, so please plan ahead for the heat. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear light, comfortable clothing and shoes.

Stay hydrated throughout the day and take breaks in the shade whenever possible. We also recommend bringing lawn chairs or blankets so you can settle in comfortably and enjoy the evening.

Stay Updated!

Follow us on social media for any day-of updates and announcements:

Tour Stafford VA, Facebook

Tour Stafford VA, Instagram

We’re looking forward to celebrating this extra special Independence Day with you in Stafford. Have a fantastic 4th of July!

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