Compiled by Madison V. Fisler
July 3, 2013. Independence Day is on its way, and the High Country knows how to celebrate with style. Check out our roundup of all the things you can do in the High Country to celebrate the 4th of July the way the locals do. Make plans for the entire family to come out and enjoy an Independence Day celebration.
Downtown Boone 4th of July Parade: At 11 a.m. on Independence Day, downtown Boone is transformed into a crawling Mecca of celebration. This year, the parade will highlight volunteers within the community. Grand Marshals Robert and Agnes Shipley will lead the parade down King Street and the parade will end at the Poplar Grove extension. Come early to find you and your family a spot on King Street to watch the parade go by and then check out the evening activities after the parade at Clawson/Burnley Park off of Hunting Hills Lane beginning at 7 p.m. with activities and fireworks for the entire family by Zambelli at 9:30 pm.
Fireworks Extravaganza at Tweetsie Railroad: Enjoy a day at Tweetsie Railroad, and then head out to the parking lot after the park closes for the spectacular fireworks show that takes place over the theme park. The park will be open until 9 p.m. and parking is $5 per car. Daily admission is $37 for adults and $23 for children ages 3 through 12. Children 2 and under are admitted free. The park’s daily hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info, call 877-893-3874.
Blowing Rock 4th of July Festival and Parade: On Saturday, July 6, enjoy games, music and fun for the entire family in beautiful scenic downtown Blowing Rock, plus the best small-town Main Street parade at 2 p.m. There will be a bounce house and obstacle course, clogging performances, a patriotic sing-along, live music and fireworks at the Blowing Rock Golf Club.
Outdoor Fireworks Concert-The Band Perry: Since releasing their self-titled debut album in 2010, The Band Perry has ascended to dizzying heights. Fronted by Kimberly Perry and rounded out by her younger brothers Neil and Reid, the band has notched a string of hit singles, including the quadruple-platinum and No. 1 Billboard Country chart hit If I Die Young, the platinum You Lie and the Country No. 1 single All Your Life. Gates open at 6:30 p.m on Saturday, July 6, at Kidd Brewer Stadium on Appalachian State University’s campus.
Banner Elk Fourth of July Parade: Every year, Banner Elk hosts a great Fourth of July Celebration! Join us for a parade through down town Banner Elk. Starting at Lees McRae College and ending at Tate-Evans Park our town members put on a great show! Kids can catch candy from most of the floats! After the parade events continue at the park, including Duck Races! Food is available to buy, and all the proceeds benefit area children. Parade starts at 11 a.m. at Lees McRae College. Start lining up the floats at 10 a.m., no registration needed.
Beech Mountain Annual Roasting of the Hog and Fireworks: This year, celebrate independence day with Beech Mountain. An annual event, the hog is roasted all day to perfection and cut up right in front of the crowd. With music, moon pies, games, and fireworks, this is a family affair that you won’t want to miss! The roasting will take place July 6th at 6 p.m.
Beech Mountain Independence Day Picnic: Come celebrate our Nation from noon-2 p.m. with a good ole’ fashioned family picnic and games. With a bounce house, relay races, yummy food and national pride, there is sure to be something for everyone in your family!
Sugar Mountain Fourth of July Scenic Lift Rides: Chairlift rides run the Fourth of July long holiday weekend from 10 am until 5:30 pm. Bring the whole family, a picnic lunch, your mountain bike, or just a friend and enjoy a breathtaking 45 minute round-trip lift-ride to Sugar 5,300 foot peak. The majestic scenery is worth it.
Elkland Art Center Liberty Day Parade: Gather for the parade at 10:30 and march at 11:00 a.m. This years element is fire! Fan your flames!
Dunn’s Deli: On Wednesday, July 3, Dunn’s Deli will have live music by the New Strings at 3 p.m. with beer tastings from Blind Squirrel Brewery
Elk River Fireworks: Thursday, July 4
Linville Ridge Fireworks: Thursday, July 4
Grandfather Golf and Country Club: Fireworks on Thursday, July 4
Banner Elk Parade: Thursday July 4 at 11 a.m. followed by the Duck Race and party in Tate-Evans Park
Crossnore: Fireworks on Thursday, July 4 at 9 p.m., Frog Jumping Contest at 5 p.m. followed by a street dance
Minneapolis: Parade on Saturday, July 6, at 1 p.m. with dinner to follow
Pick an event and pack up the family. All of these events are great ideas to start off your Independence Day adventure the right way.