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12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • July 2017 Independence Day is not just a day full of parades, games and fireworks commemorating our nation's birth. It is a day that seems to bring people together. And for Fredericksburg native, Amie Cartwright, the Heritage Festival in Downtown Fredericksburg seems to do just that. "I love how the community comes together to celebrate, and there is so much to see and do," said the mom of two. "I love how patriotic and kind everyone is…I can't wait to go back this year." As neighborhoods and communities gather to celebrate the nation's birth- day, take the opportunity to discover American history first-hand. From the plantation home of George Washington to the sites of Civil War battlefields, Virginia is rich with history. And with Independence Day fast approaching, be sure to catch a glimpse of that past while you celebrate at one of these four historic towns. Resting on the banks of the Rappahannock River, Fredericksburg is the site of four historic Civil War battles: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania Court House. Families can learn more about these battlefields at the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, which also boasts several historic buildings and the Fredericksburg National Cemetery where thousands of Union soldiers were laid to rest. Also, be sure to discover George Washington's early years at his childhood home, Ferry Farm. Places to Celebrate Check out the Heritage Festival in Downtown Fredericksburg where families can enjoy a craft show, a classic car display, face painting, a moon bounce and live music as well as a fireworks display at John Lee Pratt Memorial Park just after dusk. Hop on the trolley in downtown or at the Eagles Lodge on Cool Spring Road to Ferry Farm, George Washington's boyhood home, where children can discover more about the nation's first president through music, games, crafts, re-enactors and archeology. BY AMANDA DANAHER Celebrate Freedom Visit & Celebrate Independence Day in One of These Four Historic Towns Fredericksburg As neighborhoods and communities gather to celebrate the nation's birthday, take the opportunity to discover American history first-hand. 12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • July 2017 MIlitary re-enactment at Mount Vernon Heritage Festival in Downtown Fredericksburg