Independence Day Activities

Event Description:

Join us for an unforgettable 2026 Fourth of July celebration in one of North Carolina’s most charming waterfront towns! Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, Edenton is the perfect place to enjoy small-town Americana with big-time spirit.

Activities include:

9:00-12:00 Classic Car Show at the Courthouse
9:00-1:00 Edenton Farmers Market
9:30 – Militia Muster on Courthouse Green
10:00 Declaration Reading – DAR (State Regent is coming)
10:00 am to 2 pm Washington’s Tent open w/ photo booth
10:30 am to 2 pm Courthouse Tours. Sign your own copy of the Declaration
11:00 CJ will take Wave Across America
11:00 Golf Cart Parade + Bike Parade (See event for details)
12:00-6:00 Paddle Boat Tours ($15 cruises, 1.5 hrs each), Potential Masonic Lodge Tours, Cupola House Tours (First floor only. Free 11-4)
12:00-6:00 S. Broad from King to Water will be handicap parking all day.
1:00-4:00 Free Hayes Tours w/Birthday Cake
1:00-3:00 Edenton Yacht Club Regatta in Water
2:00 “Anything That Floats Competition” w/ Albemarle Queen
4:00 Pie Baking Contest
4:00 Optimist train rides begin
4:00-5:00 DJ Starts
5:00 Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest
6:00 Watermelon Eating Contest
6:30 Announce Winners of Watermelon Decorating Contest
7:00 Penny Hunt
8:00 Wave Across America
Fireworks start around 9:15 (dusk)

Fireworks Over Edenton Bay - End the day with a spectacular fireworks display over the water. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the show with friends and family. We look forward to celebrating with you!

More information can be found using the links below.

Visit event website for more information

Registration site

When is the Event?:

Saturday, July 4, 2026 - 9:00 am to 9:30 pm

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