For 65 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 event is so large that it spans two weekends, beginning on Saturday, June 27, 2026, and concluding on Sunday, July 5.
The Alderson 4th of July schedule is packed with activities like the Fireman’s Rodeo, the youth bicycle race, the grand parade and the Greenbrier fireworks show.
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, kicks things off on the Thursday before the 4th at the Alderson Memorial Football Field at 7:00 pm. 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 27, at 9:00 am, with age divisions for riders 4–12. Make sure to show up at 8:00 am for registration! Hosted by the Tri-County Fire Company, the event includes T-shirts, helmets and water for all participants (while supplies last). And the stakes? The top-winning boy and girl in each division take home a brand-new bike.
The fish never stood a chance against these kiddos. From three age groups, aged 4-14, join the day of fun on June 27th, where the largest fish caught within the designated area wins! Whether you catch a fish or a sunburn, prizes like tackle and poles are awarded to all competitors while supplies last, and the winner receives a medal! There will also be snacks provided for these hard-working fishermen. Registration (with a parent) starts at 5:00 pm, while the competition begins at 6:00 pm. Goodluck!
Activities run the gamut from river races to the best firework's display in the state!
Lace up your running shoes and join the Run for Snacks 5K on Saturday, July 3 at 8:30 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.
On Sunday, July 5th, starting from the Alderson Mini Park, join the water race where chaos meets engineering. You are welcome to build/bring your own float, or borrow a canoe and lifejacket provided by Camp Greenbrier. All ages are welcome to race, with supervision for children under 12. Just show up at 12:30 to register before the 1:30 start time! The winner gets a t-shirt, ribbon, and bragging rights!
Get ready to cheer on your flock to the finish! With dozens of prizes on the line, including a $5,000 grand prize, your duck just might bring home big money. The ducks are "released" on Sunday, July 5th at 6:00 pm. Rubber duck tickets ($5 each) are available at several locations in Alderson and Lewisburg.
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.” Show up at 8:00 am before the 10:30 starting time for registration! There are prizes and trophies for all categories, and the good news is that anyone can sign up!
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 begins.”
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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