Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - Thursday is Independence Day, and there are multiple spots locally where you can catch fireworks.
Dogwood Dell, located in Richmond’s Byrd Park, will host its annual event with a Richmond concert jazz band performance and fireworks on July 4. The festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. and fireworks will start at around 9:15 p.m. The event is free to attend for people of all ages.
There will also be fireworks at the Diamond after the Flying Squirrels game. Although the July 4 game is sold out, there will be more fireworks on July 5 and July 6. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Richmond Flying Squirrels website.
Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation and Virginia Credit Union are hosting the Chesterfield Fourth of July celebration starting at 5 p.m. at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds.
The Chesterfield Fairgrounds will host a Fourth of July celebration starting at 5 p.m. At this free event, people can expect food vendors, live music and fireworks that will begin around dark. For more information visit the Chesterfield County website.
Play it Safe
Officials urge citizens to keep safety in mind while celebrating the holiday. Under Virginia law, any fireworks that rise into the air, explode, move along the ground or emit anything when they are lit are illegal to own or use.
However, different localities throughout the state have varying rules about what “state allowed” fireworks can be used in their districts.
“In Chesterfield County all fireworks are illegal to possess and to light off. Some of the neighboring jurisdictions allow certain fireworks called permissible fireworks by the state. In Chesterfield County, even, sparklers are illegal,” says Sal Luciano, the Battalion Chief for Chesterfield County Fire Department.
Under the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, there are specific types of “permissible fireworks” which have a hard-coated or slow-burning fuse, like sparklers or pinwheels.
“It’s a risk like anything else. You may do it for years and years and years, never get caught and never have an injury. But it just takes one time to be devastating to you and your family,” Luciano said.
