Freedom rang more than 200 years ago in Colonial Williamsburg so it’s only befitting to spend the Fourth of July celebrating independence, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness there. While communities across the country have canceled fireworks celebrations due to the economic recession, Colonial Williamsburg will be capping off a patriotic day with a spectacular fireworks display.

Independence Day festivities begin at 10 a.m. on Market Square with a Salute to the States – saluting the original 13 colonies - with a Fifes and Drums performance and cannon fire. The Declaration of Independence will be read at 12:30 p.m. at the Capitol building. At 8:15 p.m. a concert featuring patriotic tunes kicks off and the fireworks display begins at 9:15 p.m. No ticket is required for those programs but visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket, park at the Visitor Center and take Colonial Williamsburg’s buses to the Historic Area to enjoy the festivities.

During the day, plan on visiting the Colonial Williamsburg’s Art Museums for Scots and a Legacy of Independence, a 45-minute concert performing at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museums’ Hennage Auditorium. Scottish fiddler John Turner and guitarist Cliff Williams perform songs from the Highlands telling Scotland’s story. A free reservation is required for the concerts and a Colonial Williamsburg admission ticket, Museum Pass or Good Neighbor Card provides access. Entrance to Colonial Williamsburg Art Museums is through the Public Hospital of 1773 at 326 W. Francis St. For information, call (757) 220-7724.

Visit the Colonial Williamsburg Web site for additional information (history.org) and plan your Williamsburg Fourth of July vacation now to take advantage of deals liberating for the pocketbook.