Ah, yes — it’s that time of the year again, when we all celebrate our freedom with hotdogs, rocket pops and vodka shots. Anyway, here’s all the official events for the Fourth of July in Moore County this year.
1. There are Three Parades
:: Pinehurst — Come out to the Village at 10 a.m. for their annual Independence Day parade. Food and fun to follow until noon.
:: Carthage — As always, the Carthage Rotary Club will host their annual Fourth of July celebration downtown at 11 a.m. Deck out in your red, white and blue and prepare for this patriotic parade.
:: Whispering Pines — The Fourth of July golf cart parade is proof that golf carts are multipurpose vehicles. If you want to participate, decorate your cart and bring it to the parking lot of the country club at 1:30 p.m. The parade takes off at 2.
2. Pinehurst Has a ‘Fourthfest’ With a Concert and Fireworks
:: July 3, 6-10 p.m. — Get in the Independence Day spirit a day early at the Pinehurst Harness Track. Events include a free concert for the whole family, a video game trailer for the kids, fireworks and more. A selection of food and beverages will be available for purchase, but picnic baskets are also allowed. Entertainment lasts from 6-9 p.m. and the fireworks will begin around 9:15. The gates open at 4 p.m., so bring your lawn chairs, blankets and loved ones for an early Fourth of July celebration.
3. Pinehurst Resort Has ‘Freedom Fest’
:: July 3, 5-10 p.m. — Squeeze in another pre-Independence Day event at Pinehurst Resort’s Freedom Fest. Freedom Fest will take place on the croquet courts outside of the Pinehurst Resort Clubhouse and will feature a Journey tribute band, food, beverages, activities for the kids and fireworks. Cost is $75 for adults, $75 for children 7-12 and $15 for children 3-6.
4. Aberdeen Has a ‘Fun Family Fourth of July’ — Also with Fireworks
:: July 4, 5-10 p.m — Head to Aberdeen Lake Park for live music, vendors and plenty of patriotic activities. Admission is free, but you can purchase a $5 wristband for unlimited access to a climbing wall, an inflatable slide, a bounce house and more. As usual, there will be fireworks. Go ahead and start preparing your dogs.
5. Pinehurst Has a Patriotic Pet Contest
:: July 4 — Before Pinehurst’s parade at 10 a.m., head to the Village Green for their Patriotic Pet Contest. You won’t want to miss these good girls and boys dressed in their ‘Merican best. Registration is from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the Village of Pinehurst tent — judging takes place at 9:45 a.m.
