Ashland's Fourth of July Parade was about as democratic as you can get. Anybody who wanted to participate was invited to join the procession. No motorized vehicles or floats were allowed, but kids on bikes were encouraged.

 

Get ready for Independence Day with fireworks at Busch Gardens, Genworth Financial, Dogwood Dell and more.

 

Following is a list of special events in the Shenandoah Valley region through December. Need to know how to get there from here?

 

Join Fort Lee in celebrating our nation's independence on July Fourth!

 

On Independence Day and throughout the year, Hanover Fire/EMS urges residents to follow all fireworks laws and not let improper use of fireworks ruin the celebration.

 

A fireworks shortage triggered by a storeroom fire in China could turn this Fourth of July into a dud. Some fireworks vendors and show producers are scrambling for the noisy, colorful explosives.

 

For backyard patriots, the rockets available this Fourth of July are flashier, more creative and louder than ever before.

 

Federal government and school closings for the holiday.

 

It's a fun, safe way to spend a day playing, having fun and maybe learning a little about the river and Richmond.

 

July 5, 2008: You say toma-e-to, I say toma-h-to. Celebrate the juicy fruit at the Hanover Tomato Festival.

 

July 5, 2008: Sample from breweries around the state at the Shoppes at Innsbrook.

 

Check out these wine festivals from Richmond and beyond.

 

You don't have to buy a fancy machine to make ice cream. Just ask Alex Johnson, Lucy Rayment and Ginny Martin.

 

You don't have to be a vegetarian to make veggies the centerpiece of your dinner plate.

 

With summer almost here, it's time to gear up for some serious barefoot fun in your backyard.

 

Keep these tips in mind before you fire up the grill.