The Cape Fear region is gearing up for an unforgettable Fourth of July with a range of festive events that promise fun for the whole family. From live music and fireworks to historical reenactments and beachside celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the lineup of events that will make this holiday a blast!
New Hanover County
North Carolina Symphony Stars and Stripes
Wilson Center, 711 N. Third St. • Tickets start at $23
Join the North Carolina Symphony on Tuesday, July 2, for a night filled with patriotic melodies at the Wilson Center. Led by conductor David Glover and featuring vocalist Andrea Edith Moore, this celebration includes a selection of classic and symbolic tunes. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. and lasts about an hour and a half. With tickets at just $20, this popular event is a crowd favorite, so grab yours before they sell out!
Carolina Beach Boardwalk Blast
Gazebo and Boardwalk, Carolina Beach • Free
On Wednesday, July 3, head to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for a special midweek concert and fireworks display. Port City Shakedown, Wilmington’s favorite party band, will perform Top 40 hits and dance music from the ’80s to today, starting at 6:30 p.m. Stick around as fireworks light up the sky over the Atlantic at 9 p.m.
City of Wilmington’s 4th of July Celebration
Riverfront Park, 10 Cowan St. • Free
Celebrate Independence Day at Riverfront Park on July 4, where the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra will play patriotic and popular tunes leading up to a spectacular fireworks show. The fun starts at 5 p.m. with activities for kids, food trucks, and more. Local band Live Music Company kicks off the festivities at 5:30 p.m., followed by the orchestra at 7 p.m. The evening wraps up with fireworks over the Cape Fear River at 9:05 p.m. Remember to bring lawn chairs and blankets!
Hannah Block USO/Community Arts Center Open House
Orange and Second streets • Free
Step back in time at the historic Hannah Block USO and Community Arts Center on July 4, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy nostalgic sodas for a nickel, free coffee and donuts, and exhibits from the WWII era. The Cape Fear Swing Dance Society will host a dance demonstration, with a free introductory lesson at 2 p.m. Don’t miss the documentary “Home Away From Home” playing throughout the event.
4th of July at Cloud 9
9 Estell Place • Tickets: $10
For a rooftop view of the fireworks, head to Cloud 9 at the Embassy Suites. Enjoy ‘80s throwbacks from local band Juno while you take in the sights. General admission is $10, but you can reserve a table for a group for a more comfortable experience.
Freedom Fest
Waterline Brewing, 723 Surry St. • Free
Celebrate at Waterline Brewing’s annual Freedom Fest, starting at 1 p.m. Enjoy games, face painting, food trucks, and live music from Folkstone Stringband from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This family-friendly event is a perfect way to enjoy the day with loved ones.
B.Y.O.P. Party
Eagle’s Dare, 420 N. Third St. • Admission $5
Cool off at Eagle’s Dare with a unique parking lot pool party on July 4! Bring your own inflatable pool and enjoy drinks and music from Professor Dub. The party starts at noon, and fireworks will follow at 9:05 p.m.
Brunswick County
Oak Island Beach Day
Oak Island Pier, 705 Ocean Drive • Free
On Monday, July 1, Oak Island celebrates with Beach Day, featuring activities and fireworks at 9 p.m. Join the fun as part of the North Carolina 4th of July Festival.
North Carolina 4th of July Festival
Southport, various locations • Free
This week-long festival runs from June 28 to July 4, culminating in a day filled with events, including a parade at 11 a.m., live entertainment, and fireworks at 9 p.m. in Waterfront Park. Don’t miss the arts and craft fair and food vendors throughout the day!
Pender County
Surf City Independence Day Celebration
Soundside Park, Surf City • Free
On Wednesday, July 3, enjoy live music from Jim Quick and Coastline at Soundside Park. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a great view of the fireworks at dusk.
Surf City 4th of July (Canal Streets) Parade
Third Street, Surf City • Free
Join the locals in a festive parade on July 4 at 11 a.m., where participants parade on bikes, foot, and golf carts decked out in red, white, and blue.
Onslow County
July 4th Concert and Fireworks Show
Rustic Barn at Half Moon, Jacksonville, NC
Head to Jacksonville for a concert and fireworks show featuring Alex Williams of Kool and the Gang and party band I-42. Gates open at 3 p.m., with fireworks to follow the music. Bring your chairs and blankets for a perfect holiday outing.