Dover 4th of July Celebration

Overview

schedule of events as of June 24 (click VISIT WEBSITE for updates)

Schedule of Events for 
Thursday, July 4, 2024

10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. – First State Heritage Park
FSHP is bringing you a series of FREE programs and activities throughout the day that revive the simple pleasures of times gone by. From the John Bell House (43 The Green), take a Revolutionary Dover walking tour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and relive the drama of America’s stunning birth or enjoy colonial pastimes in the yard. Meanwhile, at Legislative Hall—Delaware’s regal seat of government—guided tours will be available, also from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
 
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – The Biggs Museum
Celebrate the 4th of July at The Biggs with free admission all day. Showcasing the best of American art from the Mid-Atlantic region, spanning from the 1700s to today. Explore a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, silver, and more. In addition to the permanent collection, visitors can enjoy two special exhibitions: Rebecca Raubacher’s Horses & Other Creatures, and Award Winners XXIV featuring the Delaware Division of Arts Fellowship Recipients for 2024.   Families are encouraged to visit between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to create festive art projects.
 
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. – The Old State House
Open for tours. Admission is free. Address: The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover DE 19904. Tours will be available from 10 a.m. to 12 pm; 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The building will be closed from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. to 3 p.m. for reading of the Declaration of Independence at 2 p.m.
 
2:00 p.m. – The Old State House
Reading of the Declaration of Independence. Program commences with the ringing of The Old State House bell in celebration of the nation’s birthday, followed immediately by historical interpreters, dressed in period clothing, reciting the Declaration of Independence outside near the spot where the document was first read to the citizens of Dover in 1776.
 
4:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. – Music and Vendors around Legislative Mall
Enjoy a meal or treat from the food vendors and peruse the craft booths on the streets surrounding Legislative Mall (some vendors may open earlier than 4:00 p.m.) DJ Giz (aka Shawn Fulton) playing your favorite hits all afternoon leading up to the fireworks!
 
6:00 p.m. – Parade.
Organized by the American Legion Walter L. Fox Post No. 2. The parade begins at Hazel Street, heads south on State Street, and ends at Water Street.   Enjoy floats, fire trucks, marchers, antique and classic cars in an old-fashioned patriotic parade.  For 2024: Featuring the United States Army Marching Band!   
  
8:00 p.m. – Opening Ceremony at Legislative Hall
Remarks from the Dover’s mayor and recognition of our generous sponsors.
 
9:15 – Fireworks!!
Watch the skies light up over Legislative Mall with a grand fireworks display by Brothers Pyro Fireworks.  IMPORTANT NOTICE:  Weather conditions such as passing rain showers could mean they have to be launched later or earlier, so we suggest arriving at you viewing spot by 8 p.m. just in case. Also keep in mind fireworks cannot be launched in high winds or rain.