Why 4th of July on the Coast is the Best Ever

Get ready for fireworks! The 4th of July on the Cape Fear coast is the best ever, full of music, fireworks, and family fun. Celebrate Independence Day in Wilmington, NC with these favorite activities, and don’t forget to wave the Stars and Stripes!

Wilmington NC’s 4th of July Celebration is the best ever

6:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 4, 2017

One of the best places to be on the Fourth of July is right in downtown Wilmington. Music by local favorite Port City Shakedown begins at 6:00 p.m. There’s so much to do downtown before the show. At dusk, hurry down to the Riverwalk to see the fireworks over the Cape Fear River that start at 9:05 p.m.

Carolina Beach Fireworks by the Sea is a show to remember

6:30 p.m. Monday, July 3, 2017

Summer weekends mean Fireworks by the Sea and Boardwalk Gazebo Music at Carolina Beach. But the Independence Show will be quadruple the effort—expect a fireworks show to remember! Following the music of Rebekah Todd and the Odyssey who play at 6:30 p.m., head out to the beach strand in front of the Courtyard by Marriott or to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk to see the best-ever annual 4th of July fireworks over the ocean at 9 p.m.

Don’t miss the Surf City Independence Day Celebration

6 p.m. Monday, July 3, 2017

The Johnny White & the Elite Band starts off Surf City’s annual Independence Day bash at Soundside Park. Bring your chair or blanket and enjoy the evening! Drinks, hotdogs, and snacks will be for sale by the Town of Surf City Fire Auxiliary, and the fireworks start at dusk. No coolers allowed.

Drive a little for a special 4th of July in Southport

July 4, 2017

This one is the official North Carolina 4^th of July Festival. The Southport 4^th of July Festival has a parade, a car show, entertainment for kids, and all the festivities you’ll find at a summer fair, like music, food, and, of course, fireworks. Festivities begin on Sunday, June 25 and continue through the 4th.

Try an Airlie Gardens Summer Concert for July Fourth weekend

6 – 8 p.m. Friday, July 7, 2017

Hear some great music for Independence Day! The Wilmington Big Band will play patriotic and big band music at Airlie Gardens for the holiday weekend. Park in the West entrance, facing College Road, at 230 Government Center Drive, then ride the free trolley to Airlie. Food is available, or bring your own cooler if you like.