Greetings from your Innkeepers at Wildberry Lodge! The pages of the calendar have flipped to June, and much of North Carolina is in Phase 2 of re-opening. Right about now is when we all start making 4th of July plans, although this year will be a bit different due to COVID-19. While Asheville and some locales have cancelled festivities, many other towns, big and small, in Western North Carolina are still holding fireworks and the like. Here’s where to see fireworks and celebrate 4th of July in Asheville NC.
**Please note the following important information: Many towns are advising visitors to watch fireworks safely from their cars at nearby parking areas or spread out to avoid large crowds. In addition, fireworks and other pyrotechnics are illegal in national grasslands and national forests-regardless of weather conditions or holidays. Fireworks are also prohibited in all areas of national parks – including campgrounds, lodges, and other areas within the parks; in fact, it is illegal to even have them on your person while in the parks and forests.**
Sylva:
The town of Sylva’s July 4th celebration begins at 4 PM and includes food, dancing and live music by the All-In-One band (as of now, live music is still planned; please check prior to making plans). Fireworks will begin at sundown from Sunrise Park district and will be visible from all over downtown Sylva. 828-586-2155 or visit www.mountainlovers.com.
Beech Mountain:
Beech Mountain’s July 4th celebration starts at Kite Field across from Town Hall, and includes bounce houses, yard games, face painting, food and family fun until 2 PM, followed by the 49th Annual Roasting of the Hog and Fireworks at 6:00 PM. $15 gains you entrance, your food, music and a great view for the fireworks launched from the slopes of Beech Mountain. Call 828-387-9283 or visit www.beechmtn.com.
Hendersonville:
The Independence Day Fireworks Display begins at 9:30 PM on July 4th, and may be viewed from downtown Hendersonville and the south side of town near the intersection of Hwy. 225 South and Hwy. 176. Look for the giant red balloon to signify the visibility of the fireworks show. if you can see the “Big Red Balloon”, you can see the fireworks from your location. A patriotic soundtrack synched to the fireworks can be heard at WTZQ AM-1600 & The Q – 95.3 FM. Call 828-693-9708 or visit www.visithendersonvillenc.org.
Maggie Valley:
Maggie Valley will host a “Backyard Fourth” at the Maggie Valley Festival Grounds. The gates open at 6 PM. Visitors should bring a blanket, chairs, cooler/basket with food/snacks and refreshments. The fireworks begin at dusk. Alcohol is not permitted. Visit https://maggievalleync.gov or call 828-926-0866.
Sunset Fireworks Hike:
And now for something completely different: a Fireworks Hike! Climb to the top of Sunset Mountain, pause for an old-fashioned watermelon cutting, then stay and enjoy the sun set and fireworks over the town of Black Mountain. Hikers are reminded to bring warm clothes/blankets as it can be chilly after dark-even in July. Sponsored by the Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center; cost is $40 for members, $55 for nonmembers, $30 if under 18. For more info and to register, call 828-669-9566
The weather here in the Blue Ridge Mountains is ideal for July 4th festivities; our “rainy season” is typically finished by mid spring, with mostly sunny days and cool nights throughout the rest of the spring and summer. Wildberry Lodge is an ideal location as you celebrate our independence-and we are open for business! Spacious, well-appointed guest rooms with plush, comfy chairs and beds and luxurious private baths await. All rooms enjoy tranquil views of lush greenery and our spectacular mountains. Check out our specials, book online or call us at 828-683-2525, and get ready to celebrate the 4th with us this year!
