Fireworks will rain down on Mathews County a bit early this year—on Saturday, July 1—with festivities commemorating Independence Day to begin at 6 p.m. and the fireworks display to start around 9 p.m. at Mathews High School. The rain date is Sunday, July 2.

Organizer Jeremy Elliott said the display will be even larger this year than last year, involving nearly $25,000 worth of fireworks and a show expected to last a half hour or longer.

Parking will be at Mathews High School and the Port Fun parking lot, while overflow parking will be at Thomas Hunter Middle School. Buses will run from 6-8:15 p.m., and will provide return trips after the fireworks are done.

DJ C.J. Kelly will be on-site all evening to spin a variety of tunes, said Elliot, and food will be provided by the Piankatank Ruritan Club.

Those attending will be able to buy raffle tickets for a number of large prizes, including a 55-inch LG flatscreen television and a YETI 45 cooler provided by the fireworks committ...