Goochland County is preparing to celebrate the Fourth of July with a fireworks display that has become one of the county’s most popular traditions. There are a few differences this year, a venue change being the most prevalent, and citizens will be invited to enjoy the show from various locations.

Hidden Rock Park, the previous home of the Fourth of July celebration, didn’t work on several levels for county officials. First, the recent methane problem, although solved, prompted officials to begin looking elsewhere. Goochland public safety officials, including the sheriff and fire chief, were on record noting objections to the HRP location. Their main concern is limited access and egress from the site.

Parks and Recreation interim director Michelle Swalin said the new site should provide a better setting for the event. “In my personal opinion, the new location will be perfect to better serve the community,” said Swalin. “The crowds continue to grow larger every year and the limited access road to the park poses logistic challenges for large-scale events. County departments develop an emergency plan each year and all involved agree the Goochland Soccer Complex is the more suitable venue for the Fireworks,” she added.

Fireworks will originate at the Goochland Soccer Complex located between Goochland Elementary School and the middle and high school complex.

Spectators have a variety of choices in selecting a viewing area. The football field at the old high school provides the best spot to view the festivities.

The new high school parking lots will be open as well as the Fairgrounds Building parking area.

“The Department is encouraging participants to bring a blanket or lawn chair with the best vantage point to view the Fireworks Display being the Old High School Football Field (located behind the Administration Building) or the Goochland Middle and High School Complex,” Swalin said.

Spectators will not be allowed inside the “Red Zone,” the staging area for the fireworks located at the soccer complex site.

Even with the change in venue, Swalin is expecting an increase in crowds for this year’s event, which she readily admits is different from past performances.

“I believe that we have the capability of actually increasing our participation from year’s past when held at Hidden Rock Park due to the easily accessible location,” she said. “At this year’s Fireworks Display, there will be no vendors, no bounceables and no entertainment,” she added.

Swalin said the county was forced to scramble after the Hidden Rock problems arose. Finding an appropriate safe site wasn’t easy and said she had plenty of help.

“Thanks to Don Charles, Director of Community Development, who took the lead in finding the new location when we believed we were in jeopardy of losing the event for this year,” Swalin said. “Prior to Board of Supervisor approval for the new Goochland Soccer Complex there was no county owned land with public access that was 1000 x 1000 feet clear of obstruction and suitable for the Fireworks Display,” she added.

The fireworks presentation begins at 9 p.m., but spectators can arrive earlier at approved parking sites. “The public is welcome to come as early as 7 or 8 p.m. for a good seat, bring a picnic basket but as per Goochland County Sheriff’s Department, there will be NO tailgating (no open grilling). The Fireworks Display is being promoted as a family friendly event and alcohol is prohibited,” Swalin said.

Parking only will also be available at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College.

Swalin is looking forward to a well-coordinated celebration and acknowledged the fireworks display is a favorite event for locals.

“We are very proud to be coordinating the Fireworks Display and will continue working with dedication and commitment to serve Goochland County and the greater community.