Crozet Community Association proposes new Fourth of July celebration at King Family Vineyard

Albemarle County's Planning Commission has approved a special use permit for the Crozet Independence Day celebration, allowing the event to be held at King Family Vineyard. This decision comes as the traditional location at Crozet Park can no longer accommodate the fireworks display due to community growth.

The Fourth of July celebration, organized by the Crozet Community Association, will feature a parade, community festivities, music, food, and a fireworks show. The vineyard, which has hosted similar large-scale events in the past, is well-equipped to manage the expected crowd, with a capacity for up to 2,000 vehicles. The site has a history of agricultural use and has previously hosted events like the Pink Ribbon Polo Match.

Planning for the event has included extensive coordination with public safety agencies to ensure traffic management and emergency access. The permit stipulates that a final safety plan must be approved each year before the event, addressing potential fire hazards, especially during dry conditions. The fire marshal will be on-site to monitor safety and authorize the fireworks display.

Commissioners discussed the potential impact of fireworks on local wildlife, particularly the vineyard's noted biodiversity, but acknowledged that the event's benefits to the community outweigh these concerns. The approval allows for the celebration to occur annually within a ten-day window around July 4, ensuring that the Crozet community can continue its tradition of celebrating Independence Day with a larger and more accessible event.