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Seasonal & Holidays

Celebrate Independence Day at Great Meadow’s BIG BOOM Fireworks

​Fireworks Scheduled for 5 PM on July 4th; Hosted by Great Meadow Foundation

Great Meadow Foundation announces the return of its annual July 4th celebration, the "BIG BOOM," will offer an expanded lineup of family entertainment. Set within the scenic 374-acre park in The Plains, Virginia, the BIG BOOM offers a variety of activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display choreographed to music. Tickets are $60 per car for advance purchase (up to five passengers); $80 per car at the gate. For tickets, go to www.GMJuly4th.com.

Gates open at 5 PM on Fri., July 4th, inviting guests to immerse themselves in several attractions designed for all ages. Back by popular demand, the Flying Circus Air Show will showcase aerial performances featuring vintage biplanes performing daring maneuvers overhead.

This year, Great Meadow is enhancing the family experience with a host of new, interactive activities. Younger attendees can delight in pony rides, engage with friendly farm animals at a petting zoo, and enjoy a bouncy house. A rock-climbing wall will be available for both kids and adults. Throughout the evening, traditional field games will be offered, including sack races, stick pony races, cornhole toss, giant Connect Four, Jenga, and tug-of-war contests. Festive face painting stations will also be on hand.

Guests can engage in tailgate and hat competitions, where prizes will be awarded for the most patriotically decorated tailgate setup and the most festive hat. Attendees are welcome to bring their own picnics or choose from a wide variety of on-site food trucks and local vendors, alongside a beer truck for adult refreshments.

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“The Great Meadow Foundation is so excited to host our annual Big Boom July 4th event once again,” said Karen Crane, Great Meadow Foundation board chair. “Not only do we have an incredible fireworks show, but we've brought back beloved traditions like the Flying Circus and added even more fun with a rock wall, pony rides and a petting zoo. It’s a memorable day for all ages, all within the beautiful scenery of Great Meadow," said Crane.

Event Information:

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  • General Admission: $60 per car (up to five passengers) in advance; $80 at the gate.
  • Tailgate packages and VIP car passes go on sale June 10th at www.GMJuly4th.com.
  • Bus passes are also available.
  • Pets, tents, and large umbrellas are not permitted unless in reserved areas.
  • Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.
  • Event is rain or shine; no refunds.

About Great Meadow Foundation:
Great Meadow is a 374-acre equestrian event park located in the middle of Virginia’s horse community of The Plains, Virginia. The park was opened in 1984 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation with a mission to “preserve open space in service to the community and advance equestrian sport”. Founded by philanthropist, Arthur “Nick” Arundel as a permanent home for the prestigious Virginia Gold Cup steeplechase races, Great Meadow today hosts numerous events that draw 200,000 through the gates each year to see steeplechasing, polo, show jumpers, foot races, rocketry, cultural fairs, and Independence Day fireworks. In 2016, Great Meadow doubled the size of its property, completed a World class arena, and hosted the first FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ ever held in North America. Go to www.greatmeadow.org.

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