Still searching for a fun place to celebrate Independence Day with your family? Then come to the N.C. State Fairgrounds for lots of family-friendly activities, free parking and free admission. Pay-as-you-go food vendors will be on site, as well.
A spectacular fireworks show starts at 9:15 p.m.
July 4th Celebration at the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Fireworks show begins at 9:15 p.m.
The City of Raleigh Parks & Recreation Department, in collaboration with the State Fairgrounds, will host the 2009 July 4th Celebration this Saturday. Free activities will take place in the Jim Graham Building, Expo Center and Dorton Arena and at various outdoor locations from 5 to 8:30 p.m.
Activities include:
- Got to Be NC Watermelon Cutting provided by N.C. Watermelon Association. Begins at 5 p.m. and continues while supplies last.
- Dorton Arena’s giant obstacle course
- Nintendo Wii games
- Bocce Ball
- Raleigh Police & Fire displays
- Taiko Japanese drumming performance
- Independence Day hat-making activity
- Design a Park activity
- Nature and adventure programs
- Dance instruction
- Holiday Express expo
- Contests, sports, scavenger hunt and bingo
Indoor activities will be held rain or shine on July 4th only. In the event of inclement weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled for Sunday, July 5 at 9:15 p.m.
You can park for free at the Fairgrounds on a first come, first serve basis in the lots near Gate 9 off of Trinity Road, and Gate 4 at the intersection of Hillsborough Street and Youth Center Road. Handicap parking access through Gate 9. Click here for a Google Map showing parking and activity locations.
Fireworks can really scare pets, so please don’t bring them. Pets will not be allowed inside the July 4th Celebration event area. No alcohol or coolers will be allowed.
As usual, there are several other activities going on at the State Fairgrounds this weekend: 2009 National Mustang Car Show in the Kerr Scott Building, free for spectators, Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, July 5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Raleigh Jaycees Turkey Shoot, activity fee charged, Saturday, July 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. Raleigh Flea Market, Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
July 4th Celebration is sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Special thanks to City of Raleigh Police Deparment, NC Highway Patol and NC Dept. of Transportation.
