Red, white and blue will once again line the historic streets of Virginia City as thousands gather for the town’s annual Fourth of July Extravaganza. As the nation also celebrates America’s 250th birthday, it is set to be a full day of patriotic festivities.
The celebration begins Saturday, July 4, at noon with the Fourth of July Parade down C Street and continues with family-friendly activities and special events. At 6 p.m., David John & the Comstock Cowboys will perform a free concert in the Bucket of Blood parking lot before fireworks light up the evening sky at dusk. Visitors can find a complete schedule of events and activities at visitvirginiacitynv.com/4th-of-july.
“There’s something timeless about celebrating the Fourth of July in Virginia City,” said Todd Tuttle, tourism director for Virginia City. “As the nation commemorates America’s 250th anniversary, it’s a fitting place to celebrate Independence Day and reflect on the role Nevada and the Comstock played in shaping the American West and the Nation. We encourage visitors to spend the day exploring the town’s museums, historic attractions and local businesses and stay the night to experience everything Virginia City has to offer.”
In addition to the town-wide festivities, several local venues are hosting exclusive Fourth of July experiences:
● For those looking for a more intimate experience, St. Mary’s Art Center will host “An Intimate Fourth of JulySpectacular,” a celebration honoring the center’s 150th anniversary and America’s 250th birthday. The event features live music by The Other Brothers, a silent auction, catered appetizers, drinks and a prime view of the fireworks. Tickets will be available soon at stmarysartcenter.org.
● Mackay Mansion Museum will host its popular Fireworks & S’mores event beginning at 7 p.m. Guests can enjoy roasting s’mores while taking in Virginia City’s Fourth of July fireworks display from the mansion’s balcony. This 18+ event is limited to 35 guests and tickets are $35 per person. Advance reservations are required due to limited space. More information and tickets are available at therealmackaymansion.com.
● Fourth Ward School Museum will hold a Fireworks Watch Party at 8 p.m., offering rare access to its historic balcony and fourth-floor attic spaces, which are typically closed to the public. Guests will enjoy live music, food, one complimentary beverage and views of Virginia City’s official fireworks display at dusk. Attendance is limited. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.
● The Roasting House will host a Fourth of July Watch Party, offering guests another opportunity to take in Virginia City’s fireworks display.
● St. Mary in the Mountains Catholic Church will hold its annual Fourth of July Bake Sale featuring homemade treats and baked goods.
● Gold Hill Hotel will offer an early Fourth of July dinner service before the evening’s festivities begin.
● Silverland Bistro & Bar will offer paid parking for optimal viewing of the Fireworks and will be open late after the show.
● Additional celebrations will take place throughout town, including special dining experiences, community gatherings and excursions aboard the historic Virginia & Truckee Railroad.
Virginia City’s Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza is made possible in part through the continued support of Silverland Inn & Suites, which serves as the launch location for the annual fireworks display.
As the nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States, Virginia City’s Fourth of July celebration offers an opportunity to honor America’s birthday while surrounded by historic landmarks and sites that helped shape Nevada’s path to statehood. Between festivities, visitors can explore Virginia City’s museums, underground mine tours, shops, restaurants and historic attractions.
Visitors are encouraged to prepare for warm summer temperatures by drinking plenty of water, applying sunscreen and seeking shade when needed throughout the day. Those planning to attend are encouraged to make overnight lodging reservations early, as accommodations throughout town often fill during the holiday weekend. A variety of lodging options are available throughout town, including historic hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfasts
Visitors interested in joining the Fourth of July Parade can find registration information and event details at visitvirginiacitynv.com/4th-of-july.
For more information on Fourth of July events, visit their website at visitvirginiacitynv.com, call Virginia City Tourism Commission at 775-847-7500 or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
