Heat can’t stop big crowds from Southport 4th of July celebration

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — It may have been hot as a firecracker this Independence Day, but that didn’t stop big crowds from flocking to Southport for the annual North Carolina 4th of July Festival.

Thousands of people lined Howe Street this morning for the festival’s parade despite the temperature soaring into the 90s before noon, according to a bank thermometer along the parade route.

Gov. Pat McCrory, Lt. Gov. Dan Forest and several other state and local leaders were among the dignitaries in the parade, which also featured bands, military and civic groups, clowns and much more.

Visitors also shopped vendors in Franklin Square Park and near Waterfront Park.

The festival’s weekend of activities wraps up tonight with fireworks along the waterfront.