4th of July: An evening of celebration at the NC State Fairgrounds
With our nation’s celebrated summer holiday around the corner, grills are getting fired up, pool parties are being planned and picnics are in the works.
Independence Day falls on a Sunday this year, and to be sure, there will be a lot of road traveling going on and a fair share of relaxation with family and friends. If your plans have you in Raleigh over the 4th of July weekend, an arsenal of fireworks will light up the Raleigh night sky over the NC State Fairgrounds beginning at 9:15pm.
Leading up to the grand fireworks display, the Raleigh Parks and Recreation Dept. and the NC State Fairgrounds are hosting a packed evening of family fun beginning at 5pm, open to the public (free admission) on the fairgrounds. Six local bands including Lille Bronze, Karim Farmer, Graffiti Monkeys, Triangle Taiko Drummers, NC Vibe and Clock Struck 12 will entertain throughout the event. There will be plenty of "fair fare" to curb your cravings and drinks to quench your thirst.
Envision a mini-carnival with activities including “carnival style” games, Wii games, and sports challenges designed and representing programs available through the City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation. For instance, learn what it’s like to play wheelchair basketball. Ever tried?
Or, feed your artistic side and design your own personal hat that you can don for the remainder of the summer. The various arts and crafts activities on hand during the festival are based on arts programs designed and offered through the Sertoma Arts Center and Pullen Arts Center.
In past years, 25,000 folks have participated in the lively evening on the fairgrounds, while an estimated additional 25,000 sets of eyes have staked out viewing points around the area to watch the fireworks take flight. Happy 4th!
HelloRaleigh Tip: You can find general parking for the fairgrounds fun at Gate 4 and handicapped parking at Gate 9. FYI – coolers and alcohol are not allowed, and remember to leave the pets at home.
Posted by Angela Risko
