Frequently Asked Questions

We are from out of town. How do we learn about Staunton?

You're gonna love our town. We suggest you start here - www.visitstaunton.com

What time does the parade start?

The parade will begin it's loop around the park at 10 AM on July 4th. We expect a LARGE crowd in 2023, so we advise arriving early for the best viewing positions.

What time do the fireworks start?

Fireworks will begin after the concert on July 4th (approximately 9:45 to 10:00 PM).

Where can we park?

There is plenty of street parking available in the areas surrounding the park. Please be respectful when parking in these areas to ensure that you do not block driveways and/or fire hydrants.

Will there be handicap parking?

Recognizing the necessity of nearby parking for limited mobility guests, we have designated a portion of the main event lot (adjacent to the Dog Park and Lake Tams) for handicap parking.

Please note:

The handicap lot is free
There is a designated "group bus" drop-off area for limited mobility guests (see map>>)
Spaces are available on a first-come/first-serve basis-we expect this area to fill quickly
The lot will be monitored throughout the event to ensure only appropriate vehicles are allowed access

Please enter through the gate on Thornrose Avenue with your Handicap Parking Placard prominently displayed. You will be directed to the designated lot if spaces are available.

How much does it cost to get in?

All of the events on July 3rd & 4th (except the 5k Run) are FREE!

The only two events requiring an admission fee are 1) our Happy Birthday America Pageant on Saturday, July 2, $5 for adults and FREE for children (ages 12 and under), and 2) The News Leader Firecracker 5K. Details on the 5K are here>>

Are pets allowed?

Pets will NOT be allowed on the baseball field (concert area) or in the concession/vendor fairgrounds area.

For July 3rd and 4th, pets are only allowed in the general grounds area of Gypsy Hill Park.

Documented service animals are allowed in all areas as required by law.

Is it okay to bring my dog for fireworks?

We highly recommend that you do not bring dogs as they generally don't react favorably around fireworks. Remember, no pets of any kind will be allowed inside the ballfield/fairgrounds area at any time.

Can we bring coolers?

Coolers are allowed anywhere in the park EXCEPT the ballfield (concert area) and the vendor/concession area (parking lot). Please note that alcoholic beverages are not allowed in Gypsy Hill Park (by City code) at any time.

What is the layout of the event?

CLICK HERE to see detailed maps of the Ball-field & Fairgrounds area.

Where is the concert on July 4th?

The concert will be on the baseball field at John Moxie Stadium at Gypsy Hill Park. The stage for 2023 will be in centerfield. All vendors and concessions will be in the adjoining parking lot between the baseball field and the football stadium. CLICK HERE to see detailed maps of the site.

What is happening on July 3rd?

We have a special evening planned for July 3rd! Gates open at 12PM and the Vespers Service starts at 6:30PM. Details found here>>

How will seating work for the July 4th concert?

As always, you must bring your own lawn chairs as no seating will be provided. Only folding lawn chairs and collapsible "bag chairs" will be allowed - no beach lounges, over-sized chairs, or tents of any kind are permitted. Spaces may NOT be held without chairs; you may not "save" or "reserve" an area without the chairs present. Designated aisles will be clearly marked and ushers/law enforcement will be on hand to assist with this exciting aspect of Happy Birthday America!

Will there be handicap (ADA) access for the concert area?

There will be designated areas on the baseball field that will be reserved for Handicap (ADA) and Companion Seating. You must bring your own chairs as no seating will be provided. Each handicap seating area will have an usher who will ensure that only persons with disabilities and up to three companions (as designated by law) are allowed in this area.

Are coolers, tents, or umbrellas allowed for the concert site?
- Umbrellas - Umbrellas are not allowed in the concert area. We encourage the use of ponchos if inclement weather is expected.
- Tents - Pop-up tents or canopies will not be allowed on the ballfield. The City is providing a shade and cooling area in the gymnasium adjacent to the ballfield.
- Coolers - No coolers will be allowed on the ballfield or in the fairgrounds (vendor/concession) area. Insulated "bag-type" carriers are OK. Coolers are also Ok for the parade that morning.

Who will be performing in the July 4th concert?

Wilson Fairchild with special guests Gene Watson . Also performing will be Jack and Davis Reid, Spencer Hatcher and the Ol' Son Gang, Kentucky Just Us, and others!

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?

No alcoholic beverages are allowed anywhere in the park, fairgrounds area or ballfield at any time.

Will there be carnival rides?

Yes. We are pleased to offer a limited number of carnival rides again in 2023. Rides open at Noon on July 3rd and Noon on July 4th.

What if it rains?

The show must go on, so bring a poncho and get ready for a great time!

How can I sell my crafts or retail items?

A large vendor area has been designated in the main lot adjacent to the baseball field.

Do I need a license to be a vendor?

If you are interested in setting up a vendor booth, please contact the Staunton Commissioner of Revenue to determine if you need a license: Maggie Ragon, Commissioner of Revenue, 540-332-3830, ragonma@ci.staunton.va.us

How can my non-profit group or business sell food concessions?

A concession area has been designated for both non-profits and commercial entities in the main lot adjacent to the baseball field. Applications may be found here

Will there be any commemorative t-shirts for sale?

No.

How can I participate in the parade?

Parade applications may be found here. We look forward to having a huge parade to celebrate Independence Day!

Can my business sponsor Happy Birthday America?

Absolutely! We are a volunteer-based 501(c)3 organization and welcome the support of businesses and individuals!