MORGANTOWN — From fireworks to live music, communities are gearing up to celebrate Independence Day on Friday.
The city’s largest event returns to the Ruby Amphitheater, the Jazz Ambassadors and commercial vocalists from the U.S. Field Army Band will headline the evening.
Kids can enjoy free face painting by Ms. Pockets and an inflatable zone. Fireworks will start off at approximately 9:45 p.m., immediately after the concert.
“We are excited to have another great Fourth of July celebration planned this year,” said Vincent Kitch, Morgantown’s Director of Arts and Cultural Development. “People come from across the region to Morgantown for a day of patriotic unity, celebration and to enjoy our awesome fireworks display, too.”
Events begin earlier in the day with the Morgantown Municipal Band performing at 11 a.m. at the WVU Creative Arts Center.
The Monongalia County Ballpark will launch fireworks following the West Virginia Black Bears’ game Friday evening.
With hot weather predicted, many families are expected to spend the day on the water, swimming, boating and enjoying Cheat Lake and other local spots before the evening’s festivities.
— For motorcyclists, the annual Independence Day Ride departs from Harley-Davidson in Westover on Friday. Riders can register from 10-11 a.m. for the 70-mile ride, riding through Grafton National Cemetery to pay respects and finish at Dairy Creme Corner. Organizers of the event describe it simply as “bikes, flags, friends and freedom.”
— Downtown Morgantown will also host its First Friday Arts Walk, welcoming visitors to browse local galleries and businesses.
— In Preston County, the Terra Alta Volunteer Fire Department will mark its 99th-annual Fourth of July celebration, with fireworks at 10 p.m. July 4. A carnival and attractions are being held through Sunday at the Firemen’s Field, while “An Old-Fashioned Day in the Park” at the Terra Alta Community Park will host live entertainment and other activities.
— In Clarksburg, the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra brings its “Celebrate America Tour 2025” to the Clarksburg Amphitheater at 8 p.m. Thursday. Fireworks will follow the concert.
