Celebrate America at the 4 biggest July 4th parties in Charlotte

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Need plans for July Fourth? Here are the best spots for the city’s biggest firework shows and parties. HBD, America.

(1) U.S. National Whitewater Center

What: The USNWC’s Fourth of July Celebration is an annual two-day event, starting July 3. Expect live music, yoga by the water and of course a huge firework show each night. If you want something a little more rigorous, you can try stand-up paddle boarding and one of the day-pass activities (whitewater rafting, zip lining, kayaking, etc.) for an extra cost.

Time: Opens at 9 a.m., fireworks are at 9:30 p.m.

Cost: Free

Pro tip: Take a Lyft or carpool because parking will be insane.

(2) Symphony Park

What: The Charlotte Symphony will be performing American-themed classics as part of the Summer Pops concert series, and the night ends with a big firework show. Bring your whole family and some lawn chairs or a blanket. This event is July 3, so it’s perfect for people who like being festive but not actually going out on the holiday.

Time: 8:15 p.m.

Cost: Kids under 12 are free; kids 13-18 are $5 in advance, $7 at the door; and adults are $18 in advance, $20 day of.

Pro tip: Pack a picnic from home or take something to go from a nearby restaurant.

(3) Carowinds

What: Spend the day at Carowinds with the family (they have a waterpark section to keep you cool) and stay for a huge firework display.

Time: Park open all day, fireworks start once it’s dark

Cost: $48+

Pro tip: Traffic is going to be a nightmare, so take Pleasant Road to Gold Hill Road to I-77 when you leave.

(4) BB&T Ballpark

What: The Skyshow is one of the biggest July Fourth celebrations in the city. They’re shutting down Mint Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard for the day for a street fair style celebration (think bounce houses for kids, food vendors, etc.). And then at night, you can head to BB&T Ballpark to watch the Knights play before the huge firework show from the stadium.

Time: 6:05 p.m. game time, street festival is 2-10 p.m.

Cost: $13+ for the game + firework show.

Pro tip: Don’t wait to get your ticket. They’re selling fast.

Looking for something a little more low-key? Here are 7 other festive events.

• 4th of July Picnic at Town Brewing Company
• July 4th Cookout at The Wooden Robot
• Naturalization Ceremony & Independence Day Celebration at the Charlotte Museum of History
• July 4th Trivia at NoDa Brewing
• 19th Annual 4th of July Plaza Midwood Pig Pickin’ at 2007 Commonwealth Ave.
• 4th of July at Brazwells at 627 Montford Drive
• Myers Park 4th of July Parade at Queens University of Charlotte
• Red, White and Boom! at Merchant and Trade

Note: This story was made possible by Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.A. – our partner in exploring the #sightsandsoundsofCLT. The editorial selection and content is not endorsed or influenced by this sponsor. Featured photo courtesy of Whitewater Center.