Celebrate Freedom on the Southport Waterfront 

There’s no greater place to honor our nation’s independence than Southport. Since 1795, this charming, seaside town has come together to put on one big display of patriotism, acting as the official host of the North Carolina 4th of July Festival. Each year the festival brings more than 50,000 visitors to the Southport area to celebrate our nation’s birthday, while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the coast.

June 30th-July 4th

Southport’s 4th of July Festival features a variety of family-friendly events, from a Freedom Flotilla to a parade, fireworks, and much more. You won’t want to miss a minute of all the down-home 4th of July fun!

Fireworks, Food & Family Fun

Take a short drive to Oak Island for Beach Day, where you’ll soak up the sun and join in the fun of sand sculptures, volleyball, and bocce ball contests. Afterwards, enjoy a night of music and shag dancing.

Day One

Beach Day
Cornhole Tournament
Shag Contest
Beach Day Concert
Oak Island Anniversary Fireworks
(Begin at 9pm)

Day Two

Arts & Crafts Market
Car & Truck Show
Firefighter’s Competition
Freedom Flotilla
Children’s Games &
Entertainment

Day Three

Arts & Crafts Market
Car & Truck Show
Firefighter’s Competition
Freedom Flotilla
Children’s Games &
Entertainment

Day Four

Festival Parade
Pro Wrestling Event
Uncle Sam Jump
Fireworks
(Begin at 9pm)

While out and about, you won’t be able to resist the aroma of food in the air. Hot dogs, Greek Gyros, shrimp baskets, fries and funnel cakes are just some of the options available to festivalgoers in the multiple food courts at this year’s celebration.

Everyone loves a good parade! Make sure you’re wearing your red, white, and blue before attending this year’s Festival Parade. Just a short walk from Coastal Landing, the parade has been a memorable highlight of the festival for years.

It wouldn’t be the 4th of July without fireworks! Two hundred years ago, ships anchored in the Harbor to fire off cannons on the 4th. Not much has changed over the centuries, as we still celebrate our nation’s independence with a bang. Guests of Cape Fear Landing will have front-row seats to one of the area’s most popular firework displays. Set off over the Southport Harbor, the fireworks are a must-see tribute, bringing friends and families together in the spirit of patriotism.