The Fourth of July is a time to remember our freedoms and how they were won. History comes alive in the places that it happened. All 27 North Carolina State Historic Sites are open on July 4, and many have special events to mark Independence Day.
The State Capitol in Raleigh will host a free family Independence Day celebration called the “Old-Fashioned 4th" from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. See how people in North Carolina celebrated the nation’s birthday in days gone by, and enjoy a patriotic concert. Don’t forget to bring a picnic basket, and plan to visit the North Carolina Museum of History, too!
In Wilmington, the Battleship North Carolina will hold its annual free Battleship Blast on July 4 at 9:05 p.m. You’ll be able to see the show, which is the largest choreographed fireworks display in the state, all over historic downtown Wilmington. The Battleship will close at 6 p.m. that day.
Fourth of July festivities at Tryon Palace Historic Site and Gardens in New Bern will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You’ll hear performances by the Fife and Drum Corps and enjoy crafts and children’s games, all for free. Don’t miss the annual dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence at 11 a.m.
Historic Halifax is presenting a day of free patriotic and family-friendly activities at both the state historic site and throughout the colonial-era town on July 4. From 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., visitors can tour historic buildings, check out colonial toys and games, see a parachute jump, listen to music, and ooh and ah at the traditional fireworks display.
Roanoke Island Festival Park is partnering with the Town of Manteo and students from Western Carolina University’s College of Fine and Performing Arts to present “America Celebrates” at 8 p.m. on July 4. The free performance, along with fireworks provided by the Town of Manteo, will be held at the park’s Outdoor Pavilion.
Find out more about N.C. Historic Sites and other cultural activities at www.ncculture.com.
