The City of Fairfax has planned a host of activities for Thursday, July 4, including a parade in historic downtown Fairfax, and music and fireworks at Fairfax High School.

The 47th annual Independence Day parade steps off at 10 a.m. at 4100 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, rain or shine.

The parade loops around downtown Fairfax, along Chain Bridge Road, Main Street, University Drive and Armstrong Street. Among the entries in this year’s parade are eight high school marching bands from as far west as Nebraska and Minnesota to the city's own Fairfax High School Marching Rebels. Other parade entries include many large inflatable parade balloons, horses and clowns.

The Grand Marshal is the Honorable Quin S. Elson, a long time community activist and Fairfax Police Youth Club (FPYC) volunteer. The Honorable Elson is being recognized for his dedication and commitment to the community.

After the parade, watch area fire companies compete using firefighting and emergency techniques and equipment in the Old Fashioned Fireman’s Day from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Fire Station 3, 4081 University Drive. This event also features food, beverages and games.

As the sun sets, enjoy music and dancing during the Evening Show at 7 p.m. at Fairfax High School (3501 Rebel Run). The show will feature the nine-piece band GrooveLine (favorites from the 50’s to today’s current hits) and the City of Fairfax Band. A fireworks display will follow with a final performance by GrooveLine until 10:30 p.m. The rain date for the fireworks only is July 5. Items that may puncture the synthetic turf, smoking, alcohol and animals (except service animals) are not permitted on the football field.

Several historic properties will be open to the public on July 4, including the Fairfax Museum and Visitors Center (9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 10209 Main Street) and Ratcliffe-Allison House (11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 10386 Main Street).

Event sponsors include Fair City Mall and 97.1 WASH-FM.

Shuttle bus service for the parade runs from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. from George Mason University, Woodson High School and Fairfax United Methodist Church. Shuttles will return spectators to these locations after the parade.

On July 4th, for the evening show and fireworks, public parking is available at Fairfax High School. Please use shuttle buses available from 6-9:15 p.m. at Woodson High School (9525 Main Street) to Fairfax High School. Shuttles will return spectators to Woodson High School after the fireworks until 11 p.m. On July 5th, rain date for fireworks only, use shuttles available from 7-9:15 p.m. at Woodson High School. Shuttles will return spectators to Woodson High School after the fireworks until 10:30 p.m. Handicapped parking is available at Fairfax High School. For information, call 703-385-7858.

For additional information on Independence Day activities or to volunteer, call 703-385-7858 or visit the city’s website at www.fairfaxva.gov.