There are some fantastic ways to celebrate Independence Day in the Wilmington area, especially on our islands and beach communities. Here are some of the places to see fireworks, plus some suggestions on how to best enjoy your experience!

Downtown Wilmington Fireworks

When: Thursday, July 4 with fireworks starting at 9 p.m.

What: One of the biggest firework displays is in Downtown Wilmington every July 4. We suggest parking in the early afternoon and spending the day shopping, dining and exploring downtown before the firework show. Parking is, as always, very limited. The earlier you can arrive, the better. At 5 p.m., head to the Live Oak Bank Pavilion for family-friendly live entertainment and music. The Wilmington Symphony is set to go on at 7 p.m. Fireworks are visible throughout most of the Riverwalk. You will love seeing the fireworks over the river and the Battleship North Carolina. 

More tips: Check out some of the rules about what food and drinks are allowed in the venue on Live Oak Bank Pavillion’s website. There are some restrictions about the height of lawn chairs and the venue is cashless. Multiple streets downtown will close for the celebration, so plan ahead. 

More places to watch the show:

• Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar
• Waterline Brewing Company
• Eagle’s Dare

Carolina Beach

When: Wednesday, July 3 starting at 9 p.m.

What: Carolina Beach hosts firework shows every Thursday night throughout the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. For the week of the Fourth, however, the show is moving to Wednesday night. Enjoy live music along the boardwalk on the beach starting in the early evening before fireworks at 9.m. There are amusement rides, shopping and dining along the boardwalk. Parking is not free and is very limited, so consider coming in the morning and spending the day at the beach and the evening along the boardwalk. 

Surf City

When: Wednesday, July 3, starting at 9 p.m. 

Every year the town of Surf City hosts an impressive firework display in the Intracoastal Waterway, visible along the bridge to Topsail Island. Hundreds of boaters anchor along the waterway to enjoy the show while spectators line up on the bridge in the walking lane for hours. Come early to stake your spot — without a boat you’ll want to check out the show from Soundside Park. Expect at least two hours of traffic on the island following the fireworks. 

Oak Island

When: Monday, July 1, fireworks starting at 9 p.m.

What: Oak Island will host a Beach Day celebration and fireworks Monday at The Oak Island Pier. This event is in conjunction with The North Carolina 4th of July Festival, held each year in Southport.

Southport

When: Thursday, July 4

What: Southport is a magical, historical place to celebrate the Fourth. Sure there will be fireworks held at 9 p.m. along the waterfront, but its the full day of activities that afternoon we recommend. 

All weekend find something to do at the NC Fourth of July Festival from the arts and crafts festival, firefighter competition, truck show, live music, flotilla, and a very patriotic naturalization ceremony. Oh yeah, and did we mention the salute to veterans? The firework show? The famous July 4th parade once famously attended by Josh Duhamel and Fergie? 

Want to know more about Wilmington and the surrounding area? We have all the information you need on our blog and our neighborhood guide!