For over 200 years, Southport has celebrated our nation’s Independence in a big way, and they invite you to join the celebration!
The history of Southport’s Fourth of July Festival celebration was first recorded in a newspaper in 1795. When ships lying at anchor in the harbor would discharge salutes from their cannons at daybreak and throughout the day, with the ships officers and town officials sharing companionship toasting the young nations independence. During this time it was known as the “Festival of Free Men.”
Southport continued the celebrations for two centuries, when the festival incorporated as the N.C. 4th of July Festival in 1972. Today, the festival remembers the sacrifices, celebrates freedom, and promotes family fun.
The N.C. 4th of July Festival is held annually in the City of Southport. Join the over 50,000 people who attend the N.C. 4th of July Festival each year.
Annual festival events include:
- Reading of the Declaration of Independence
- Military Band Concert
- Naturalization Ceremony
- Flag Raising Ceremony
- Flag Retirement Ceremony
- Veteran’s Recognition Ceremony
- Fire Fighter’s Freedom Competition
- Over 100 arts & craft booths, food vendors, parade, children’s games and entertainment, live stage entertainment, and fireworks.
Visit Franklin Square Art Gallery’s National Art Show, Shine & Show’s Classic Car Show, voter registration, Old Jail tours, Lions Club Boat raffle drawing, Cape Fear Yacht Club’s Commodore Regatta, St. Philip Church’s self-guided tours, Old Smithville Cemetery tours, a pancake breakfast, and more.
There will also be the annual Beach Day Events on Oak Island. For updated and detailed festival information, please visit www.nc4thofjuly.com
