As the 400^th Anniversary of the Jamestown Settlement continues its months long commemoration, the Hampton Roads area is definitely the place to celebrate the most patriotic of holidays. Even in the height of summer, the weather in Virginia Beach is not too unbearable, allowing beachgoers to enjoy the surf and sand in comfort. The added bonus of fireworks and picnics can only enhance a summer vacation in Virginia Beach.

This year will prove to be no less spectacular than past celebrations, with magnificent fireworks displays planned across the major cities. First Landing State Park, so named for the first group of settlers to land on American soil, will host daylong on the shore. Sand castle contests, beach games, and picnic fare figure into the fun.

When the sun goes down, the city will light up the sky from the 20^th Street Stage. Here the Virginia Beach Symphony Orchestra and Virginia Beach Chorale will lead folks in patriotic song in time to the light show. Similar festivities are slated in Norfolk's Town Point Park, and along the York River in Yorktown. All events are free and open to the public.

If you're in Virginia Beach for an extended vacation, you might want to consider a day trip on the Fourth to the Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center. In addition to fireworks, both living museums make the perfect destination for a themed holiday excursion, with live demonstrations of Colonial life, arts and crafts, and history.

Patriotism isn't limited to just the Fourth in this area, however. After the last rocket red glare has faded into the night sky, you can plan other excursions throughout Hampton Roads. The USS Wisconsin and the MacArthur Memorial in Norfolk, the Virginia Air and Space Museum in Hampton, and Fort Story in Virginia Beach are among the many military and historical points of interest you enjoy during a trip to this area. So be sure to wave your flag high this July as you celebrate the Fourth in the sand.