Neighborhood Expert: Tips for Independence Day fireworks

Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].

With America’s birthday approaching, it’s really important to remind you that not all of the fireworks actually happen on July 4th, so before you post in one of the Facebook groups asking about the noises, make sure you take note of the days and times so you can plan ahead to attend if that’s your thing!

One other mom tip — the fireworks are really loud. If you have a noise-sensitive kid, either bring headphones, or use one of my other tips to watch but not hear the noise. 

The Town of Vienna Fireworks are traditionally held at Yeonas Park (the Vienna Little League Fields). This year, they’ll take place on July 2 at 9:30 p.m. (approx. when it gets dark).

However, there’s a lot of things leading up to the actual fireworks that you can attend: live music, kids entertainment, games, food trucks, etc. starting at 4 p.m. This event is BYOC (bring your own chairs, blankets, etc.). Chairs are not permitted on the actual field, but there is a paved path and sidewalks where you can put the chairs for folks who can’t easily get up and down from the ground. There’s also bleachers but they get filled up. Streets around Yeonas will get closed from 7-11 p.m.

• You can park at Cedar Lane School, Cedar Lane Shopping Center, Thoreau Middle School, Southside Park, etc. and walk to the field if you want to be in the action. 
• Please remember if you’re actually AT Yeonas, it WILL be really loud. 
• You can also see the fireworks (on a clear night) from the top of the Vienna Metro parking garage and avoid the loudness of the fireworks (plus it’s easy to get out if your kid get bored or agitated)
• You should also be able to see the fireworks from neighboring streets if you can get close to Yeonas.
• Pack snacks. Although the concession stand and food trucks will be available, I suspect the lines will be long. 
• No alcohol is allowed. 
• Do not bring pets. 

Westwood Country Club also does Fourth of July Fireworks traditionally on the 4th at dark. You can also watch those fireworks from the Giant Shopping Center or the streets across from the Club. So far I haven’t seen anything advertising the fireworks this year (and it was canceled last year) but when I called today, I was told they would be on the 4th. You can check their social media for updates!

There are more options around NoVA like July 1st at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, Langley High School in McLean, etc. Lots of opportunities around town if you’re a fireworks enthusiast!

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