If you’re spending the Fourth of July in Virginia Beach this year—whether you’re a local or vacationing in Sandbridge—you’re in for one of the biggest holiday weekends of the summer.

As someone who has called Coastal Virginia home since 2008 and helps families relocate to Virginia Beach every day, one of the questions I hear most often this time of year is:

“Where’s the best place to watch fireworks?”

The good news? You have several great options depending on whether you’re staying in Sandbridge, Princess Anne, Red Mill, Strawbridge, Courthouse Estates, or elsewhere in Virginia Beach.

Here’s my local guide to the best Fourth of July fireworks displays and holiday activities happening around Virginia Beach.

1. Virginia Beach Oceanfront Fireworks (Best Overall Experience)

If you’re looking for the classic Virginia Beach Fourth of July experience, the Oceanfront is hard to beat.

The annual Stars & Stripes Celebration includes live music throughout the Oceanfront at 17th, 24th, and 31st Street Parks, followed by a large fireworks display over the Atlantic Ocean at approximately 9:30 p.m. Visitors can view the show from nearly anywhere along the beach and boardwalk.

Local Tip:

If you’re staying in Sandbridge, plan to leave early. Holiday traffic between Sandbridge and the Oceanfront can be significant, especially after the fireworks conclude.

2. Mount Trashmore (Best for Families)

For families with younger children, I often recommend Mount Trashmore Park.

The city’s annual celebration features food vendors, live entertainment, family activities, and a fireworks show beginning around 9:30 p.m. The large grassy areas make it easier for families to spread out than the Oceanfront.

Local Tip:

Parking fills quickly. Arrive early if you plan to attend, or consider viewing the fireworks from surrounding areas around Town Center. Locals often share alternative viewing spots nearby.

3. Sandbridge Beach (Best for Vacationers)

One of the best things about staying in Sandbridge is that you don’t necessarily need a formal fireworks event to enjoy Independence Day.

Many families spend the day on the beach, grilling at their rental homes, enjoying neighborhood celebrations, and watching fireworks displays visible from various points along the shoreline and Back Bay area. Sandbridge has long been known for its laid-back holiday atmosphere and community traditions.

Local Tip:

Bring beach chairs, stay for sunset, and enjoy a quieter holiday experience than you’ll find at the Oceanfront.

4. Town Point Park in Norfolk (Worth the Drive)

If you’re willing to venture outside Virginia Beach, Town Point Park hosts the annual Great American Picnic & Fireworks celebration.

Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, waterfront views, and a fireworks show over the Elizabeth River.

This can be a great alternative if you’ve already experienced the Virginia Beach fireworks displays and want something different.

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Honorable Mentions: Other Things to Do Over Fourth of July Weekend

Not everyone wants to spend hours waiting for fireworks. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the holiday weekend in Virginia Beach.

Spend the Day at Sandbridge Beach

For many visitors, the beach itself is the main event.

Pack a cooler, rent bikes, enjoy an early morning walk, or simply spend the day enjoying one of Virginia’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Sandbridge remains one of the most relaxing vacation destinations in Coastal Virginia.

Explore Back Bay

The Pungo and Sandbridge area offers incredible opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, wildlife viewing, and nature photography during the holiday weekend.

Early mornings around Back Bay are especially beautiful before beach crowds arrive.

Take a Hike

Looking to balance out the cookouts and desserts?

Consider exploring Stumpy Lake Natural Area, one of Virginia Beach’s hidden gems for walking trails, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Play a Round of Golf

If you’re staying in Princess Anne or Sandbridge, Hell’s Point Golf Club offers a scenic local option surrounded by the natural beauty of southern Virginia Beach.

Explore Pungo

One of my favorite recommendations for visitors is simply driving through Pungo.

You’ll find local farm stands, rural scenery, fresh produce, and a side of Virginia Beach many tourists never discover.

It’s one of the reasons so many families eventually decide to move here.

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Thinking About Making Virginia Beach Home?

Every summer I meet vacationers who come to Sandbridge for a week and leave wondering what it would be like to live here full-time.

Whether you’re exploring Sandbridge, Princess Anne, Red Mill, Strawbridge, Courthouse Estates, or Pungo, I’d be happy to help you learn more about the neighborhoods locals love most.

From hidden gems to market insights, my goal is to help you experience Virginia Beach like a local.

Happy Fourth of July, and enjoy the fireworks!