Outer Banks 4th of July Events

Fourth of July on the Outer Banks, photo courtesy of Mike Leech Photography

The Fourth of July on the Outer Banks is truly unforgettable. If you`ve experienced it, you know there are no words that can fully capture it; it`s one of those things you just have to feel for yourself! With its wide sandy beaches, endless ocean views, and laid-back summer vibe, it`s the perfect place to soak up the holiday. Spend the day grilling out, relaxing by the water, or heading to local events. As the sun sets, fireworks burst over the ocean, and towns come alive with parades, live music, and celebrations. Whether you`re out on a boat, enjoying a beach picnic, or taking in the night sky, the Outer Banks is the perfect place to spend Independence Day.

Corolla

Where to stay: 

• Captain`s Choice | 5-bedrooms | 6-bathrooms
• Pier Envy | 7-bedrooms | 8-bathrooms
• Message In a Bottle | 4-bedrooms | 5-bathrooms
• Holiday House | 4-bedrooms | 4-bathrooms

Fourth of July Celebration in Corolla

Photos courtesy of Northern OBX Events

Duck

The charming town of Duck does not have fireworks, but it does have an Independence Celebration of its own. Starting at 9 AM on July 4, 2025, the Town of Duck 4th of July Parade kicks off starting at the crest of the hill on Scarborough Lane and will end at Pamela Court. See the photo below for the full parade route. There will be a community celebration following the parade at the Duck Town Park with food and drinks, live music, and the awarding of the parade trophies.

Where to stay:

• Charlie`s Casa | 1-bedroom | 2-bathrooms
• One More Moon | 3-bedrooms | 3-bathrooms
• Seashell Bungalow | 3-bedrooms | 2-bathrooms
• Better Sand | 2-bedrooms | 3-bathrooms

Kill Devil Hills

Head to Avalon Pier for the scenic fireworks display on July 4, 2025 hosted by the Town of Kill Devil Hills. While access to the pier itself will be restricted, visitors can bring a beach chair or blanket and watch from the beach. Fireworks are expected to begin at 9:15 PM, as they have in previous years.

Hot Tip: If you can, walk or Uber as parking is limited and you don`t want to be searching for a parking spot while the fireworks are being set off.

Where to stay:

• Summer Days | 4-bedrooms | 2-bathrooms
• Summer Nights | 4-bedrooms | 2-bathrooms
• Sea Therapy | 3-bedrooms | 4-bathrooms
• Go Fish | 3-bedrooms | 4-bathrooms
• Flip Flop | 5-bedrooms | 6-bathrooms

Nags Head

The Town of Nags Head Fireworks Spectacular will take place on July 4, 2025 at Nags Head Fishing Pier. Along with Avalon Pier, access to the pier itself will be restricted, visitors can bring blankets and beach chairs to watch the fireworks from the shore. Fireworks are expected to begin at 9:25 PM, as they have in previous years.

Hot Tip: Want to view both Nags Head and Manteo fireworks? Climb Jockey`s Ridge for a spectacular viewing opportunity. 

Where to stay:

• Sea Duced | 6-bedrooms | 8-bathrooms
• Tis the SeaSun | 4-bedrooms | 5-bathrooms
• Part Time | 3-bedrooms | 2-bathrooms
• Parrothead Inn | 4-bedrooms | 2-bathrooms

Fourth of July Fireworks

Photos courtesy of the Town of Nags Head

Photo courtesy of  Nags Head Fishing Pier

Manteo

Join in on all the holiday fun in Downtown Town of Manteo with a community celebration. A family-fun event full of festivities celebrating Independence Day. The event will kick off at 3 PM and end at dusk with a vivid fireworks display. The fireworks will be launched over the Roanoke Sound and Shallowbag Bay, hosted by the Town of Manteo. Viewers can watch the fireworks from the waterfront in downtown or find a spot in the grass at Shallowbag Bay.

Where to stay:

• Pelicans Perch | 3-bedrooms | 3-bathrooms
• Soundside Breeze | 1-bedroom | 1-bathroom

Fourth of July Community Celebration

Photos courtesy of the Town of Manteo

Hatteras Island

Ring in the 4th of July with an unforgettable celebration at Avon Pier and the Avon Beach Klub on Hatteras Island! Enjoy a night filled with festive events, including special broadcasts on Radio Hatteras FM 101.5 and 99.9, all leading up to a breathtaking fireworks display over the stunning Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

Where to stay:

• Siren`s Song | 6-bedrooms | 6-bathrooms 
• Hatteras Retreat | 7-bedrooms | 7-bathrooms
• Sea Gull Motel | Studio - 2-bedroom options | 1-bathroom

Ocracoke Island

Take the scenic ferry from Hatteras Island to the charming coastal village of Ocracoke for an early Independence Day Celebration featuring fireworks, a festive parade, and plenty of family fun on July 2, 2025. As the sun sets, gather along the waterfront to witness the spectacular fireworks display over Silver Lake Harbor. Visitors can find seating around the harborfront docks and bring beach chairs, towels, or blankets to relax and enjoy the show. On the Fourth of July, the community will host its annual sand sculpture contest and parade through the village!

Where to stay:

• Villas of Hatteras Landing | 1-bedroom | 1-bathroom
• Solara | 14-bedrooms | 16-bathrooms

Fourth of July Fun on Ocracoke Island

Photos courtesy of Visit Ocracoke

Other Events Not to Miss

• June 29 - The Independence 1 Mile Beer Run

Address: 600 S. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Time: 10 AM

• July 2 - First Flight Farmers Market at Aviation Park

Address: 103 Veterans Drive, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Time: 9 AM-1 PM

• July 3 - Dowdy Park Summer`s Farmer Market

Address: 3005 South Croatan Highway, Nags Head, NC 27959
Time: 9 AM-1 PM

• July 3 - Soundside Summer Market

Address: 6800 S Croatan Hwy, Nags Head, NC 27959
Time: More info coming soon

• July 4 - Independence Day 1850s Style with Island Farm

Address: 1140 N US Highway 64, Manteo, NC 27954
Time: 9 AM-3 PM

• July 5 - Secotan Market

Address: 2868 NC-345, Wanchese, NC 27981
Time: 8 AM-12 PM

• July 3, 5, All Week - The Lost Colony Performance

Address: 1409 National Park Dr, Manteo, NC 27954
Time: 8:30 PM

Important Fireworks Information

Please note all fireworks that leave the ground and have a report or a "bang" are illegal in North Carolina. Respect private property, stay off the dunes, and be sure to take any trash and belongings when you leave. 

Read more about rules and regulations regarding fireworks in Dare County at Dare County Fireworks Regulations.

The Outer Banks is a popular destination for the Fourth of July and it`s easy to see why. Find your perfect holiday vacation rental today and come join all the celebratory fun!