Jul 04, 2026, 10:52 PM GMT
Dix Park gates now open for Raleigh July 4 celebration
The gates at Dix Park are now open as attendees begin arriving for Raleigh's annual July 4 celebration.
NC July 4 live updates: Independence Day celebrations, fireworks and heat across North Carolina
Last updated: Saturday, July 4, 2026 10:52PM GMT
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolinians are celebrating Independence Day and America's 250th anniversary under dangerous heat conditions across much of the state.
From parades and festivals to fireworks shows and community gatherings, thousands are expected to take part in Fourth of July events throughout the Triangle and beyond. At the same time, extreme heat warnings and heat advisories remain in effect across central North Carolina, with heat index values climbing into the triple digits.
Follow along throughout the day as ABC11 tracks America 250 events, traffic, fireworks displays and the ongoing heat wave.
Key Headlines
- Jul 04, 2026, 10:52 PM GMT
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- Jul 04, 2026, 10:10 PM GMT
- Jul 04, 2026, 9:19 PM GMT
Here's how the news is developing.
Jul 04, 2026, 10:30 PM GMT
Getting to Dix Park: Shuttle buses to begin carrying July 4 crowds
Shuttle buses about to start running as crowds make their way to Raleigh's Independence Day celebration at Dix Park.
Organizers are encouraging visitors to use shuttle service as thousands are expected to head to the park for the Fourth of July celebration.
Stay with ABC11 for live updates from Dix Park throughout the evening as crowds gather for fireworks and America's 250th anniversary celebration.
Jul 04, 2026, 10:10 PM GMT
Cary scales back Independence Day celebration
Cary officials have modified Saturday's Independence Day Celebration at Koka Booth Amphitheatre because forecasted heat index values are expected to exceed 100 degrees.
Town leaders said some scheduled performances and family activities have been condensed or canceled to prioritize the health and safety of attendees, performers and staff.
One of the biggest changes is the cancellation of the North Carolina Symphony's annual performance. In a statement, the symphony said it would be unable to participate due to the forecast of record-breaking heat, marking the first time it has missed the longtime Independence Day tradition because of extreme temperatures.
Despite the changes, the free event will continue with programming recognizing the nation's 250th anniversary, family-friendly activities, a fireworks display and a post-fireworks after-party featuring DJ Bri and a raffle with prizes.
Jul 04, 2026, 9:19 PM GMT
Record heat on July 4
The Independence Day heat wave made history across central North Carolina on Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, Raleigh reached 103 degrees, breaking its previous daily record high. Fayetteville also set a new record, climbing to 100 degrees.
The record-breaking temperatures came as much of central North Carolina remained under an Extreme Heat Warning, with heat index values soaring well above 100 degrees.
