Fourth of July Events and Fireworks in Asheville, N.C.

How to Celebrate Independence Day in Asheville

Asheville takes great pride in celebrating our nation's Independence Day. From festivals to parades to fireworks, Asheville has a blast celebrating the Fourth of July here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

See a full list of events taking place on Fourth of July weekend.

Below, find information about fireworks and other large celebrations in and around Asheville.

Fourth of July Fireworks in Downtown Asheville

There's something special about watching fireworks burst over the twinkling skyline of downtown Asheville that keeps families coming back on Fourth of July year after year.

In 2021, DJ Nex Millen will supply music on the Pack Square Park stage from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, before the fireworks display begins at approximately 9:30 pm.

There will be no food or drink vendors. So, bring a picnic or pick up food to-go from your favorite Asheville restaurant to enjoy in Pack Square Park prior to the fireworks. The Splasheville Fountain is expected to be running on the Fourth of July to give kids a space to cool off and splash about. 

There will be portable bathrooms, water bottle filling stations and first aid available in the Pack Square Park area. 

No tents or cooking are allowed. Also, no alcoholic beverages are permitted. Dogs should be leashed, but please be aware that fireworks frighten many dogs so for this reason please highly consider leaving your pet at home.

Tips from the locals: The fireworks can best be seen from Pack Square Park. There are also some good spots along N. Spruce Street near the intersection with College St. Arrive early and bring a chair or blanket to sit on. Parking is available in the parking decks (first hour is free), on the streets, and in private lots.

South Asheville Fireworks Over Lake Julian

One of the largest fireworks shows in the area happens over the calm water at Lake Julian Park in south Asheville. The fireworks display begins approximately at 9:15 p.m., but visitors should arrive by 7:45 p.m. to allow enough time for parking and entering the park. The park opens at 8 a.m.

Arrive early and enjoy all the park has to offer including disc golf, cornhole, sand volleyball, playgrounds, fitness courses, horsehoes, picnic tables and grills (available on a first-come, first serve basis). Food trucks will be on-site throughout the day. use the picnic tables, grills, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, boat rental and playground. Local bluegrass band Supper Break will play live music during the afternoon and into the evening. You can also fish the lake that day without a license (July 4 only). 

An accessible boat launch is available for private craft including fishing boats, canoes, kayaks, SUPs, and sailboats for a fee of $8. Paddle boats and water trikes can be rented for $12 per hour. All boats must be off the water by 8 p.m.

Alcohol and tobacco products are prohibited on the grounds of Lake Julian.

Tips from the locals: Park in the lot for Estes Elementary across from Lake Julian Park (parking is not permitted at the Lake itself on July 4th). Shuttles will operate from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. from the Estes parking lot. Limited parking is available at the Lake Julian Trail Greenway in the gravel lot adjacent to Wild Wing Café. Also, bring a jacket or a sweater! Evenings can be cool at the lake, even in July!

July 4th Jam at Salvage Station

An amazing lineup of musicians take the stage at Salvage Station this Independence Day. This all-ages show features The Fritz, The Get Right Band, and Jeff Santiago. The Root Down food truck will be serving up their amazing twist on Southern Soul food all evening long. Tickets are required.

Red, White and Brew at Highland Brewing Company

Celebrate Independence Day with beer, live music and great food. Highland Brewing Company hosts the party with the Sweet Cheesus and CeCi's Culinary Tour dining options and music from Jackson Grimm & The Onestring Band and Pleasure Chest.

Weaverville Downtown Party and Fireworks

Asheville's neighboring town to the north hosts a downtown party and fireworks. In 2021, Asheville sensation Lyric will perform at 7:30 p.m. Fireworks start at 9:45 p.m. Check back for more information as it becomes available.

Black Mountain Independence Day Fireworks and Hike

The town of Black Mountain (less than 20 minutes east of Asheville) hosts its fireworks show on Saturday, July 3.

For a unique perspective on Black Mountain's fireworks show, join the Swannanoa Valley Museum on a 1.5-mile, moderate hike to the peak of Sunset Mountain (July 3). At the summit, you'll enjoy an old-fashioned watermelon cutting and then watch the sunset and fireworks. During dinner, hike leaders will share history and vintage photographs.

Montreat Fourth of July Parade and Celebration

The town of Montreat hosts an old-fashioned Fourth of July parade that is a longtime favorite in the area because of how it captures the essence of American life. The celebration traditionally has been a homecoming holiday that brings extended Montreat families together from all over the country.

In 2021, the parade is scheduled for Saturday, July 3 at 10:00 a.m.

5th Annual Freedom Gala

Help support local non-profit, Consider Haiti, by purchasing tickets to the 5th Annual Freedom Gala. There is a bike ride in the morning. In the evening, enjoy a picnic meal on the lawn of the Patton Parker House. Tickets are available through June 30.

Asheville Tourists Baseball Game and Fireworks

When the Asheville Tourists minor league baseball team is at home during Fourth of July weekend, there are typically fireworks after the game. However, in 2021, the Asheville Tourists are on the road during the holiday weekend so there will be no fireworks at the stadium on Independence Day.