America 250 July 4th celebration and fireworks at Dix Park Presented by ABC11 | Watch Live

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Saturday, July 4, 2026 9:40PM
ABC11 24/7 Streaming Channel

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The City of Raleigh is expecting a much larger turnout because Independence Day falls on a Saturday and America is celebrating its 250th birthday.

However, due to the extreme heat and it possibly being the hottest Fourth of July on record in Central North Carolina, everyone who does venture out is asked to make their health a priority.

ABC11 is the presenting station for the event, which returns to Dorothea Dix Park in downtown Raleigh.

The "ABC11 Presents Raleigh Fireworks at Dix Park" special begins promptly at 9:00 p.m.; Fireworks start popping at 9:30 p.m.

Where to Watch

If you decide to stay in cool space at home, you can watch the fireworks on





  • Disney+ and wherever you stream us.

Dix Park Festitivies

  • 5:30 p.m. - Downtown shuttles begin from Moore Square
  • 6 p.m. - Gates open at Dix Park; Food trucks, music, and activities begin
  • 9 p.m. - Last shuttle leaves from Moore Square for Dix Park
  • 9:30 p.m. - Fireworks start popping off
  • 10 p.m. - Event ends: Shuttles begin returning attendees to Moore Square

Click on July 4th in Raleigh for more details

Other Events to celebrate America 250 in Raleigh

Sunday events

America's Cookout

You can't celebrate a big birthday without food! America's Cookout is a fun, family-friendly community event organized by the City of Raleigh.

In addition to food, there will be games, activities, and opportunities to connect with City departments as we honor our shared history and build stronger community connections.

  • When: Sunday, July 5, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Where: Abbott's Creek Community Center; 9950 Durant Road


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