For 64 years, the town of Alderson has adorned itself in patriotic red, white and blue to celebrate America’s birthday and become West Virginia’s best and arguably largest Fourth of July Celebration. The celebration is so large that it spans two weekends, beginning on Friday, June 27, 2025, and concluding on Saturday, July 6.
The Alderson 4th of July schedule is packed with events like the Fireman’s Rodeo, the youth bicycle race, the grand parade, the Greenbrier fireworks show and more.
For an event that has become known as West Virginia’s best Fourth of July celebration, it takes almost a year to plan. “We start meetings in September for the next year,” mentioned Briton Kirby, Alderson Fourth of July Committee member.
If you're looking for things to do in Alderson, and wondering where to celebrate July 4th in Greenbrier, the multi-weekend event is unquestionably the answer. Beyond the rodeo, fireworks and parade, the celebration features music, 5k runs, fishing tournaments, horse shows, the Ducks on the Greenbrier: Rubber Duck Race, and a youth bicycle race.
The fireman’s rodeo, Alderson’s Fourth of July event, always kicks things off on the Friday before the 4th. Featuring competitions between area fire departments like the bucket brigade (extinguishing fires the old-fashioned way), hose relay, obstacle courses, tug of war and more. “It’s one of the best parts of the whole celebration,” Kirby said. “You never know what’s going to happen.”
The free Youth Bicycle Race rolls out on Saturday, June 28, at 9:00 am, with age divisions for riders 4–12. Hosted by the Tri-County Fire Company, the event includes T-shirts, helmets, and water for all participants, while supplies last. And the stakes? Top-winning boy and girl in each division take home a brand-new bike.
Activities run the gamut from river races to the best firework's display in the state!
Get ready to cheer on your flock to the finish! With 90 prizes on the line, including a $5,000 grand prize and a trip for two to Philadelphia, your duck just might bring home the glory. The Ducks on the Greenbrier race kicks off on Sunday, July 6th at 6:00 pm. Rubber duck tickets are available at several locations in Alderson and Lewisburg. Duck tickets are $5 each.
Lace up your running shoes and join the Run for Snacks 5K on Saturday, July 5 at 8:00 am. Starting at Alderson Memorial Football Field, the scenic route takes runners along the beautiful Greenbrier River through historic Alderson. The race supports the Alderson Elementary School “Snacks in Packs” program, with prizes for top finishers across multiple age groups and divisions. Entry fee is $30.
The 4th of July parade in Alderson is one of the longest in the state and lasts for almost two hours. With floats, cars, fire trucks, bicycles, horses and more, it’s one of the rare parades where the front will catch the back. “The celebration has become a family tradition for some folks,” Kirby stated. “You’ll see families sitting in the same spots year after year.”
If you’re looking for fireworks near Lewisburg, there is no bigger display around than Alderson’s Fourth of July Celebration. The display is a coordinated effort between the Tri-County Volunteer Fire Department and the Alderson Volunteer Fire Department. Kirby noted that the two fire departments built a ground fireworks display, which may be one of the only remaining ground fireworks displays on the East Coast, calling them rare these days. But the coordination of the departments put into the display with music makes the event an experience spectators won’t want to miss.
Don't miss out on the Grand Fireworks Display on the 4th!
For anyone wondering about parking for the 4th of July parade in Alderson or arriving for the best Greenbrier Valley fireworks, there are plenty of options, including parking on the town’s side streets and at the mini-park (especially for the fishing derby). “There’s always parking close,” Kirby said. “But, you’ll want to find your parking spot early before the Fourth of July parade commences.”
The event atmosphere (loud noises, bright lights, big crowds) can stress or injure pets. Experts recommend keeping pets at home and explaining to kids how to help pets cope by staying calm .
The Grand Fireworks Display takes place at 10:00 pm on the 4th of July. With aerial and ground displays, the best view is located at the Alderson Memorial Football Field. The entrance fee is $5 per person with children 6 and under free. Be sure to bring chairs and/or blanket.
Yes! All kids are welcome to participate free of charge, and they’ll receive a T-shirt, helmet and water (while supplies last). There are three age divisions: 4-6 years, 7-9 years and 10-12 years of age. The top-ranking boy and girl in each age division win a brand‑new bike. Participants must have an adult present for the duration of the race.
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