What’s happening across the cape fear this weekend
Wilmington, NC (WWAY) — Communities across the Cape Fear region are preparing for a busy Fourth of July weekend with parades, fireworks, festivals and family-friendly activities celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
In Brunswick County, the North Carolina Fourth of July Festival is underway in Southport. The multi-day event features arts and crafts vendors, live music, a flotilla and trick horse performances. The festival’s signature Fourth of July Parade begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, traveling along Moore and Howe streets. Admission is free.
In Pender County, Surf City’s Independence Day Celebration takes place Friday at Soundside Park. Live music begins at 6 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9 p.m. The free event also includes food trucks.
Also in Pender County, Tate Farm by the Pond will host its Fourth of July Water Park Festival on Saturday from noon to 9 p.m. The event includes water slides, bounce houses, paddle boats, food trucks, vendors and a cornhole tournament. Admission is $10.
In New Hanover County, Wilmington’s Fourth of July Celebration begins Saturday at 5:30 p.m. with live music, children’s activities and food vendors. Two fireworks displays are scheduled for 9 p.m. — one launched across from Riverfront Park and another from a barge near the Battleship North Carolina.
Carolina Beach will hold its Independence Day Fireworks and Boardwalk Blast on Friday. The event begins at 6 p.m. with live entertainment, followed by fireworks at 9 p.m.
New Hanover County also offers several other events throughout the weekend.
The Cameron Art Museum will offer a free guided tour at 1 p.m. Friday highlighting the more than 1,800 United States Colored Troops who fought during the Battle of Forks Road.
Other Wilmington-area events include the Marina Grill’s Fourth of July Boatyard Bash on Saturday, featuring live music beginning at 6 p.m., and Freedom Fest at Waterline Brewing, which runs from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday with activities including a water balloon fight, pie-eating contest and reptile petting zoo.
The Eagles Dare is also hosting a bring-your-own-pool party on Saturday beginning at noon. Tickets are available online.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to check event organizers’ websites and social media pages for the latest information on parking, weather-related changes and schedules.
