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''The Big Boom'' Independence Day Celebration


THE PLAINS, VA – Great Meadow Foundation is proud to announce The Big Boom, its annual Independence Day Celebration, returning on July 4 with an expanded lineup of entertainment, family activities, and patriotic traditions as America commemorates its 250th Anniversary.

Known as one of Northern Virginia's premier Fourth of July destinations, Great Meadow's celebration brings together thousands of families, friends, and visitors from across the region for a day filled with excitement, community spirit, and a spectacular tribute to the nation's birthday.

Headlining the entertainment is Fauquier County native and American Idol Top 10 finalist Mike Parker. After earning national recognition and launching his country music career in Nashville, Parker returns home to perform for the community that first supported his journey.

Adding to the excitement, guests will enjoy an exhilarating airshow featuring skilled pilots showcasing aerial maneuvers above Great Meadow. The day's aerial entertainment continues with a patriotic demonstration by 550 Cord Inc., whose highly trained military veteran parachutists will descend into the venue carrying American flags in a dramatic salute to our nation.

Returning by popular demand, Great Meadow will once again feature its spectacular drone light show, a fan-favorite attraction that transforms the night sky with choreographed patriotic imagery and cutting-edge aerial artistry. The drone show will lead into Great Meadow's signature fi reworks spectacular, creating an unforgettable grand finale celebrating America's 250th birthday.

"America's 250th Anniversary is a once-in-a-generation milestone," said Cynthia Jeffery, Executive Director of Great Meadow Foundation. "We're proud to bring our community together for a celebration that honors our nation's history while creating lasting memories for families and visitors from across the region."

ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE:

  • Aerial Features
    • Exciting airshow performances, a fantastical drone light show, and patriotic parachutist demonstrations.
  • Live Music
    • A special hometown performance by American Idol Top 10 fi nalist Mike Parker, now a rising country music artist in Nashville.
  • Family Fun Zone
    • Petting zoo, bounce houses, pony rides, and interactive games for children of all ages.
  • Axe Throwing Adventures
    • Try your hand at axe throwing with Heroic Axe's mobile "Axe Throwing Adventures."
  • Local Flavors
    • Delicious concessions, local food vendors, and a lively Biergarten serving refreshments throughout the day.
  • Patriotic Traditions
    • Tributes to America, community celebrations, and one of the largest fi reworks displays in the region.
The celebration attracts thousands of attendees annually from throughout Northern Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley, and the Washington metropolitan area, making Great Meadow one of Virginia's most beloved Independence Day traditions.

With Thanks to Our Sponsors and Supporters
We are proud to recognize and thank our sponsors and supporters for helping create this unforgettable Independence Day celebration.




For tickets, event details, schedules, and a complete list of sponsors, visit www.GMJuly4th.com.

About Great Meadow Foundation

The Great Meadow Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and operating Great Meadow, a 374-acre fi eld events center in The Plains, Virginia. For more than four decades, Great Meadow has hosted nationally recognized equestrian competitions, community celebrations, educational programs, charitable events, and outdoor sporting events while protecting open space for future generations.

Media Contact

Great Meadow Foundation
5089 Old Tavern Road 
The Plains, VA 20198
www.greatmeadow.org
540-253-5000