Genworth Financial Fireworks Show: 'Celebrate Freedom' in Richmond, VA

July 2^nd, 2010 - The fourth annual fireworks display and "Celebrate Freedom" concert was in full swing tonight, hosted by Genworth Financial. The concert featured the Heritage of America Band, and started shortly after 7pm, with the fireworks show beginning at dusk. Unfortunately, the fireworks display lasted under 20 minutes-half the time required exiting the packed parking garage, especially considering the lack of consideration I have come to associate with Richmond drivers.

In all the major cities I have lived in-St. Louis, Missouri, included-I have never seen a more consistently inconsiderate, blatantly rude, danger-disregarding lot of drivers. However, I will grant the guy in the sporty little red car ahead of us his due credit; I didn't realize anyone but stunt drivers could back-out of a parking space and wedge themselves between moving vehicles with such accuracy and speed. I would have been impressed if I wasn't so annoyed.

The event made the "Fourth Of July Edition" of the local "Top Five Weekend Events" series on Richmond.com; the article, by Colleen Curran, listed events for each day of the holiday weekend. With no ticket price, food vendors and plenty of lawn to picnic on, I am confident many families enjoy this annual concert and display. The Heritage of America Band was certainly the best part of the event, though the fireworks display is the more advertised perk of the evening. Unfortunately, with such a minimal amount of fireworks on-display, the whole "Celebrate Freedom" event fell flat.

If you live within walking distance-which is unlikely, considering the event is located on West Broad Street-you might find this to be a fantastic 4^th of July weekend activity. I certainly saw a considerable amount of families present, including a van full of kids sitting on the hood of their vehicle to get a better view of the fireworks from the top level of the parking garage. If you plan to arrive early, easily before the 6:30pm opening hour, the amount of parking spaces and large variety of lawn locations will provide you and your group with plenty of options-just leave Fido at home, as canine companions are discouraged. Pack a cooler and a picnic, remember to bring your folding chairs and sunscreen, and wait for the droves of Richmond residents to arrive.

Sources:

Colleen Curran, "Top Five Fourth of July Edition," Richmond.com