STAUNTON, VA (Rocktown Now) — Applications are now open for Happy Birthday America’s 2026 Independence Day celebration in Staunton. This includes volunteers, parade participants, pageant contestants, food concessions, non-food vendors, and the Staunton Firecracker 5K as part of the organization’s 2026 Fourth of July festivities.

Sponsorship opportunities are also now available for businesses and organizations looking to support one of the Shenandoah Valley’s largest free community celebrations. Sponsors | VA 24401 | Happy Birthday America

The expanded three-day celebration begins Sunday, June 28, with the Happy Birthday America Beauty Pageant. Festivities continue Friday, July 3, with a patriotic kickoff event featuring live music, inspirational speakers, and special performances. The celebration culminates Saturday, July 4, with a full day of family-friendly events including the Firecracker 5K, the annual patriotic parade through Gypsy Hill Park, food and artisan vendors, carnival rides, live entertainment, and an expanded fireworks finale.

This year’s event will feature headline musical performances from country and gospel favorites Wilson Fairchild and Jimmy Fortune, with performances beginning at 7:30 p.m. on July 4 at Gypsy Hill Park. Admission is free to the public.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are essential to making Happy Birthday America possible each year. Community members are invited to assist with event setup, parade operations, information booths, logistics, and event breakdown throughout the celebration weekend.

Applications Close June 19th  – View Volunteer Application Here

Parade Applications

* Limited Spots Left – Will Sell Out* Applications are now open for one of the Shenandoah Valley’s and Virginia’s largest Independence Day parades. Organizers encourage businesses, churches, schools, civic groups, marching bands, veterans organizations, equestrian units, dance teams, emergency vehicles, and community organizations to apply early, as parade space is expected to fill quickly.

Applications Close June 19th  – View Parade Application Here

Pageant Applications

Contestants are invited to participate in the annual Happy Birthday America Pageant, where winners will serve as official ambassadors for the 2026 celebration and lead the July 4 parade.

Applications Close June 19th  – View the Pageant Application Here

Food & Non-Food Vendors

The celebration offers vendors a unique opportunity to connect with thousands of attendees during one of Staunton’s premier annual events. Food vendors, artisan businesses, nonprofits, and local organizations are encouraged to apply.

Applications Close May 31st  – View the Food Concession Application Here

           View Non-Food Vendor Application Here

Staunton Firecracker 5K

Runners and walkers of all skill levels are invited to participate in the Firecracker 5K, widely recognized as one of the area’s largest and most competitive Independence Day races.

More Details and Application Here

2026 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

·         Official America250 Block Party Location and VA250 Commemorative Partner

·         Kickoff event featuring patriotic and gospel music

·         Large-scale patriotic parade commemorating America’s 250th anniversary

·         Free live concert featuring Jimmy Fortune and Wilson Fairchild

·         Family-friendly carnival, food vendors, artisan marketplace, and activities

·         Expanded July 4 fireworks spectacular