A Celebration of Independence in the ?Capital of the First State.

Join us in beautiful downtown Dover as we celebrate Independence Day!

Dover's annual Fourth of July celebration is made possible only through the generous donations of local businesses, organizations and individuals. Please consider becoming a Sponsor or Adopt-a-Firework and show your support for this community event!

Schedule of Events

10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. - The Old State House
Open for tours. Admission is free. Address: The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover DE 19904. Tours will be available from 10 a.m. to 12 pm; 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The building will be closed from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. to 3 p.m. for reading of the Declaration of Independence at 2:00 p.m.
 
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. - First State Heritage Park
FSHP is bringing you a series of FREE programs and activities throughout the day that revive the simple pleasures of times gone by. From the John Bell House (43 The Green), take a Revolutionary Dover walking tour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and relive the drama of America's stunning birth or enjoy colonial pastimes in the yard. Meanwhile, at Legislative Hall—Delaware's regal seat of government—guided tours will be available, also from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
 
2:00 p.m. - The Old State House
Reading of the Declaration of Independence. Program commences with the ringing of The Old State House bell in celebration of the nation's birthday, followed immediately by historical interpreters, dressed in period clothing, reciting the Declaration of Independence outside near the spot where the document was first read to the citizens of Dover in 1776.
 
4:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. - Vendors around Legislative Mall
Enjoy a meal or treat from the food vendors and peruse the craft booths on the streets surrounding Legislative Mall (some vendors may open earlier than 4:00 p.m.)
 
6:00 p.m. - Parade
Organized by the American Legion Walter L. Fox Post No. 2. Enjoy floats, fire trucks, marchers, antique and classic cars in an old-fashioned patriotic parade. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Due to the closure of State Street, the Parade line up will be on Park Drive (between E. Division and E. Loockerman Street) beginning at 4:00 p.m. Step off is 6:00 p.m. The parade will start on Park Drive, head west on Loockerman Street, turn left on State Street, and terminate at Water Street.
 
6:30 p.m. - Legislative Mall
DJ Giz (aka Shawn Fulton) playing your favorite hits as we await the fireworks show!
 
8:00 p.m. - Opening Ceremony
Remarks from the Dover's mayor and recognition of our generous sponsors.
 
9:15 - Fireworks!!
Watch the skies light up over Legislative Mall with a grand fireworks display by Brothers Pyro Fireworks. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Weather conditions such as passing rain showers could mean they have to be launched later or earlier, so we suggest arriving at you viewing spot by 8 p.m. just in case. Also keep in mind fireworks cannot be launched in high winds or rain.

Date: July 4, 2023

Location: Various Venues in Dover, DE 19901.

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