There are some fantastic ways to celebrate Independence Day in the Wilmington area, especially on our islands and beach communities. Here are some of the places to see fireworks, plus some suggestions on how to best enjoy your experience!
Downtown Wilmington Fireworks
When: Thursday, July 4, with fireworks starting at 9 p.m.
What: One of the biggest fireworks displays is in Downtown Wilmington every July 4th. We suggest parking in the early afternoon and spending the day shopping, dining, and exploring downtown before the firework show. The earlier you can arrive, the better! At 5 p.m., head to the Live Oak Bank Pavilion for family-friendly live entertainment and music. The Wilmington Symphony is set to go on at 7 p.m. Fireworks are visible throughout most of the Riverwalk. You will love seeing the fireworks over the Cape Fear River and the Battleship North Carolina.
More tips: Check out some of the rules about what food and drinks are allowed in the venue on Live Oak Bank Pavilion’s website. There are some restrictions on the height of lawn chairs, and the venue is cashless. Multiple streets downtown will close for the celebration, so plan ahead.
More places to watch the show:
Carolina Beach
When: Wednesday, July 3, starting at 9 p.m.
What: Carolina Beach hosts fireworks shows every Thursday night throughout the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. For the week of the Fourth, however, the show is moving to Wednesday night. Enjoy live music along the boardwalk on the beach starting in the early evening before fireworks at 9 p.m. There are amusement rides, shopping, and dining along the boardwalk. Parking is not free and is very limited, so consider coming in the morning and spending the day at the beach and the evening along the boardwalk.
Surf City
When: Wednesday, July 3, starting at 9 p.m.
Every year, the town of Surf City hosts an impressive fireworks display in the Intracoastal Waterway, visible along the bridge to Topsail Island. Hundreds of boaters anchor along the waterway to enjoy the show while spectators line up on the bridge in the walking lane for hours. Come early to stake your spot; without a boat, you’ll want to check out the show from Soundside Park. Expect at least two hours of traffic on the island following the fireworks.
Southport
When: Thursday, July 4
What: Southport is a magical, historical place to celebrate the Fourth. Sure, there will be fireworks held at 9 p.m. along the waterfront, but it’s the full day of activities that afternoon we recommend.
All week, find something to do at the NC Fourth of July Festival, from the arts and crafts festival, firefighter competition, truck show, live music, flotilla, and a very patriotic naturalization ceremony. Oh yeah, and did we mention the salute to veterans? The fireworks show? The famous July 4th parade, once famously attended by Josh Duhamel and Fergie?
Ocean Isle
When: Thursday, July 4, fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m.
What: Launched from the Ocean Isle Beach Pier, these fireworks will be visible across the entire island. PyroStar Entertainment is hosting the show, so be ready for some spectacular, festive fun! This event is lovingly co-sponsored by the Ocean Isle Property Owners Association and the Town of Ocean Isle Beach.
