Where to Watch Fireworks & Celebrate July 4th in Raleigh + the Triangle
Nothing says summer in the South like a sky full of fireworks, grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, and happy, barefoot children running through sprinklers. If you're in the Raleigh area and wondering where to go this Independence Day, don't sweat it — we’ve Handled. the planning for you.
From big city blowouts to charming small-town fun, here’s your ultimate guide to the best family-friendly July 4th events and fireworks shows happening all around the Triangle.
Let’s make this Fourth one to remember.
Fireworks & Family Fun Around the Triangle
Raleigh’s Official July 4th Fireworks Celebration
When: Friday, July 4 | Parking opens at 6 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
Where: Stadium Complex — Lenovo Center and Carter-Finley Stadium area
Cost: Free
This park, watch, and go event focuses solely on fireworks. No stage, no vendors — just an incredible show in the sky. Bring your chairs, blankets, and some snacks.
More details on Raleigh’s fireworks event
Brier Creek Star-Spangled Block Party
When: Friday, July 4 | Festivities begin at 8 p.m., fireworks after dark
Where: Brier Creek Commons – 8131 Brier Creek Pkwy, Raleigh
This popular event features bounce houses, a DJ, giveaways, and fireworks you’ll feel in your chest.
Get details for Brier Creek’s celebration
Cary’s July 4th Celebration
When: Friday, July 4 | Gates open at 3:30 p.m., fireworks at 9:25 p.m.
Where: Koka Booth Amphitheatre – 8003 Regency Pkwy, Cary
Picnic by the lake while enjoying live patriotic music from the NC Symphony — capped off with fireworks.
Cary’s Independence Day schedule
Durham Bulls Game & Fireworks
When: Friday, July 4 | Game at 6:35 p.m., fireworks after
Where: Durham Bulls Athletic Park – 409 Blackwell St, Durham
Enjoy America’s pastime, then stay seated for one of the best post-game firework shows in the Triangle.
Durham Bulls July 4th tickets & info
Wake Forest Fireworks Spectacular
When: Thursday, July 3 | Gates open at 5:30 p.m., fireworks around 9:30 p.m.
Where: Heritage High School – 1150 Forestville Rd, Wake Forest
Music, inflatables, concessions, and a crowd-pleasing fireworks show — all the fun, one day early.
View Wake Forest event details
Clayton Square to Square Festival & Fireworks
When: Friday, July 4 | Festivities start at 6 p.m., fireworks at dark
Where: Main Street, Downtown Clayton
Kick off with a children’s bike parade, then enjoy food trucks, inflatables, live entertainment, and a fire truck spray-down. Fireworks launch from Clayton High School at dusk.
Clayton’s official July 4th info
Wendell Independence Day Celebration
When: Wednesday, July 2 | Park opens at 6 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m.
Where: Wendell Park – 601 W Third Street, Wendell
Live music, family fun, and a serious food truck lineup. Fireworks close out the night in small-town style.
See Wendell’s event page
Morrisville July 3rd Family Fun Festival
When: Thursday, July 3 | 5–9 p.m., fireworks after 9 p.m.
Where: Cedar Fork District Park – 228 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville
Inflatables, live music, and more than a dozen food trucks. $20 wristbands available for unlimited access to games (Visa/MasterCard only).
Morrisville event details
Bonus: 4th of July Fun Without Fireworks
Apex Olde Fashioned Fourth of July
When: Friday, July 4 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: Downtown Apex
Think splash pad, bike parade, carnival games, and classic small-town charm.
Apex 4th of July details
Knightdale Fourth on First Avenue
When: Friday, July 4 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: Knightdale Station Park – 810 N First Ave, Knightdale
A morning event full of fun: bike parade, inflatables, games, food trucks, and live music from Liquid Pleasure.
Knightdale’s full event info
Pro Tips to Make the Day a Breeze
Bring chairs or a picnic blanket
Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray
Pack water bottles and snacks
Arrive early for better parking
Headphones help noise-sensitive children
Glow sticks = instant joy
Prefer to Simply Show Up and Enjoy?
Let Pickett Concierge take care of the details. Whether it’s researching the best local events, coordinating your family’s day, or handling the behind-the-scenes logistics, we make your Fourth effortless and enjoyable — so all you have to do is relax and make memories.
Happy Fourth of July, Raleigh
Wherever you celebrate, we hope your day is full of sparkles, smiles, and sweet summer memories.