Independence Day is right around the corner, and there’s no better place to celebrate than right here in Raleigh! Whether you’re planning to watch fireworks light up the night sky, host a backyard cookout, or shop local sales to kick off your holiday weekend, we’ve got you covered. From family-friendly events and firework shows to local shops stocked with all your grilling essentials, plus special 4th of July promotions from your favorite small businesses—this guide will help you celebrate red, white, and local.
Local Celebrations
Claytons Independence Day Fireworks
July 3rd
Clayton Middle School
9:15 pm
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Cary’s July 3rd Celebration
July 3rd Downtown Cary Park 4:00 – 10:00 pm
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Wake Forest Fireworks Spectacular
July 3rd Heritage High School 5:30 – 10:00 pm
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Apex Fireworks Frenzy
July 3rd Hunter Street Park 4:30 – 10:00 pm
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Garner Independence Day Celebration
Mark your calendars for a free evening of fun for the whole family. Enjoy delicious food and great music while your children play in the kids’ zone. Top it all off with a headlining performance by the North Carolina Symphony and the best fireworks show in the Triangle!
July 3rd Lake Benson Park 5:00 – 10:00 pm
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First in Freedom Parade – Raleigh
Celebrate the nation’s birthday in downtown Raleigh as the First in Freedom Parade honors North Carolina’s role in American history. This annual tradition is one of the largest Independence Day parades in the state.
July 4th Downtown Raleigh 9:30 a.m.
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NC Freedom Fest at the State Capitol
Following the parade, continue the celebration downtown with live music, historical demonstrations, food vendors, local artisans, and family-friendly activities celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
July 4th State Capitol – Downtown Raleigh 10:00 am -4:00pm
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Raleigh Fourth of July Fireworks at Dix Park
July 4th Dix Park – Downtown Raleigh 6:00-10:00pm
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Cary Independence Day Celebration
July 4th Koka Booth Amphitheater – Cary Gates Open at 3:30 pm
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Knightdale Fourth on First
July 4th Knightdale Station Park 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
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Rolesville Fourth of July Celebration
July 4th Redford Place Park 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
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Wake Forest Children’s Parade & Art in the Park
July 4th North Main Street & West Juniper Avenue 10:00 am
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Brier Creek Independence Celebration
July 4th North Main Street & West Juniper Avenue 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
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Holly Springs Independence Day Celebration
July 5th Jefferson L. Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
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Grillmaster Essentials
Get your grill on and shop local! From farm-fresh meats and small-batch sauces to handcrafted BBQ must-haves, Raleigh’s local businesses have everything you need to serve up serious flavor this Fourth of July. Ditch the big box stores—your ideal cookout lineup is waiting just down the street!
4th of July Sales and Summer Promotions
- Treat yourself this summer to a catered meal from Peytons Place Open Pit BBQ and Fried Chicken with their summer specials!
- Whole Texas Brisket: $150.00
Whole Pork Butts Smoked: $50.00
Pulled Chicken 10lbs: $40.00
Hotel Pan With Your Choice of Side: $35.00
- Whole Texas Brisket: $150.00
- Try catering from Sam Jones BBQ! Order some classic chopped pork, slow-cooked chicken, homemade sides, desserts, and more. Or, stop in one of their locations for some summertime slushies!
- Looking for the perfect 4th of July outfits? Check out Lulu’s Boutique 4th of July Edit!
- Don’t forget to keep your pets safe this 4th of July! Stop in your closest Unleashed location for thundercoats, pet CBD, and other calming products that can help your pets stay calm through fireworks and summer storms.
- Stock up on your favorite Raleigh and NC themed t-shirts from House of Swank with their Buy 2 Get 1 Free sale! Ends July 4th. Use code “BUY2” at checkout.
- BOGO free hotdogs at Snoopy’s all month long using this coupon!
- Riparian Provision Co. has special 4th of July hours from 12-6pm on the 4th!
- Sleep better and save this holiday weekend! Celebrate the Fourth of July with The Organic Bedroom’s Independence Day Sale, where you can save up to 20% on organic mattresses and accessories.
