North Carolina is full of naturally beautiful destinations and quaint towns. Accordingly, this charming state is the go-to destination to celebrate America’s birthday. You and your family can enjoy exciting parades, festivals, and dazzling fireworks displays. Browse through an abundance of cozy vacation rentals in North Carolina to find the perfect accommodation for your family’s 4th of July celebration. That said, here are the most unforgettable places in the state to celebrate Independence Day.

1. Southport

This small maritime community draws tens of thousands of visitors each year. In colonial times, ships would land in the harbor and shoot off cannons on the 4th of July. Today, Southport celebrates with a parade, family-friendly entertainment, arts and crafts, and more. Located on the southwestern coast of North Carolina, visitors in Southport have access to beaches, nature preserves, and a small peninsula. Browse over 800 vacation rentals on Tripping.com to find the right match for you and your family.

2. Wilmington

Wilmington, a coastal town, celebrates America’s birthday with a series of exciting events. Each year, fireworks burst over the Cape Fear River while a party rages on Pier 33 with music and dancing. Look for open air concerts, movies at Carolina Beach Lake Park, and kid-friendly events. Nearby island beaches create the perfect environment to relax on the beach, go boating, or simply watch the sunset with the ones you love. Tripping.com provides the convenience of your own vacation rental to relax and recharge after a weekend full of celebration.

3. Beaufort County

This small community celebrates with a series of parades, events, fireworks, and salutes to members of the armed forces. There are a number of historic sites around Beaufort County, including old churches, courthouses, and homes. What better way to celebrate the birth of the United States than by exploring its vibrant history? Enjoy musket firing demonstrations, outdoor concerts, and opportunities for arts and crafts. For a romantic evening, take a fireworks cruise the Crystal Coast Lady. Colonial homes, available for vacation rental on Tripping.com, add the perfect historical touch to your 4th of July vacation.

4. Asheville

Asheville is a scenic and culturally-rich destination at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is one of North Carolina’s larger cities, so there are many opportunities for family fun. Park Square Park features children’s events, bouncy houses, and live music in Downtown Asheville. There are many places to watch fireworks and enjoy a local parade, including Bryson City, Lake Junaluska, Brevard, and several others. Other events, such as the Red, White, and Bluegrass Festival and a ride on the Freedom Train, help families get into the patriotic spirit.

5. Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh is an exciting place to celebrate America’s birthday. North Carolina’s capital city hosts a large all-day festival, called The ‘Works!, on Fayetteville Street every year. This free event includes live music, wine and beer, kids games, street performers, food vendors, and more! Fireworks, of course, end the night in spectacular fashion. Whether you are looking for a charming cottage or a stately brick home, vacation rentals for all kinds of travelers are available on Tripping.com.

6. Durham

Durham, close to Raleigh, enjoys close proximity to the state’s capital city and the fun events happening there. However, Durham has its own 4th of July celebrations worth visiting. Check out the Independence Day Celebration at Durham Bulls Athletic Park, which features a baseball game and a fireworks show. Other events, such as the Festival for the Eno, feature food trucks, music, and arts and crafts. Hundreds of vacation rentals in and around Durham make exploring the city a breeze. Let Tripping.com take the stress out of planning your Durham 4th of July celebration!

7. Boone

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a historically-rich town with endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Try hiking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and more to beat the summer heat and take in the area’s natural beauty. For a glimpse into Boone’s past, take the family on a Western-themed steam train ride. The Tweetsie Railroad is an exciting family fun park that everybody is sure to enjoy. Each year, a family-friendly parade takes place through downtown Boone, and the celebration continues with watermelon, cake, and fireworks once the sun goes down.

8. Hatteras Island

Hatteras Island, part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is a peaceful and idyllic summer destination. Kids will love flying kites, building sandcastles on the beach, fishing from Avon Fishing Pier, and exploring the lighthouses. The North Carolina Aquarium, on nearby Roanoke Island, is another family-friendly way to escape the summer heat. You can also rent bikes and explore this picturesque destination on two wheels, and then store them in the garage of your vacation rental. Once the sun goes down, set up a blanket and relax with your family as fireworks light up the sky over Avon Pier.

9. Charlotte

It takes multiple days to truly experience 4th of July in Charlotte. There are events for every interest, from 5K runs to symphony performances. In Charlotte and its surrounding suburbs, there are opportunities for picnics, free concerts, and kid-friendly festivals. However, the real show begins when the sun goes down. SkyShow, Charlotte’s fireworks celebration, takes place at BB&T Ballpark and requires tickets for entry.

10. Greenville

The whole family is sure to have fun at the all-day Jaycees Independence Day Celebration in Greenville. Children’s activities, such as bounce houses, get the day started. Several performances take place in the Amphitheater, and a beer garden is available for the adults. Of course, there are fireworks once the sun goes down! There are also festivities in the Greenville Town Common including food vendors and arts and crafts. Enjoy the privacy and convenient amenities that a vacation rental provides. Browse hundreds of photos on Tripping.com to find the vacation rental that matches your family’s vacation style.