When summer hits, there’s one thing we’re all looking forward to: Independence Day! It’s always a fun-filled day, with cookouts, parades, fireworks, and more.
The festivities can be exciting to participate in, but not all of them are suitable for seniors. Now that you’re getting older, you need to be selective; being wise about the events you attend can make all the difference in how you feel, both during and afterward.
Don’t worry about finding suitable 4th of July events in Harrisburg, NC on your own, though. We’re here with an extensive list to help you out.
Parade Along Highway 49
The star of the show in Harrisburg is the annual parade along Highway 49. It begins at 9:00 am, and participants will start at Captain Steve’s and proceed north to Robinson Ave. Since it’s one of the largest and most well-attended parades in the area, you can bet that it’ll be a fun time!
This July 4th parade frequently features:
- Military vehicles
- Bands
- Equestrian groups
- Fire trucks
There are ample seating opportunities to view the parade. Just make sure to bring a sturdy folding chair so you can snag a viewing spot on the sidewalk.
Two-Day Festival at Harrisburg Park
Harrisburg does it big for festive summer gatherings, and you won’t be disappointed for Independence Day. There’s a two-day festival at Harrisburg Park on July 3rd and 4th, and entry is free!
Everything kicks off at 4:00 pm on the first day, with all amusements and food vendors open straight away. You’ll already get to enjoy a fireworks show that night, starting at 9:30 pm.
The next day, the festival opens again at 4:00 pm. If you missed the fireworks on the 3rd, then you’ll get another chance to catch them at the same time on the 4th.
Harrisburg Park Fireworks
As we’ve mentioned above, there are two nights of fireworks that go off at 9:30 pm: the 3rd and the 4th. While you may be at the festival to partake in other activities, you may not want to view the fireworks at Harrisburg Park, especially since there are throngs of people.
Our first alternative is Harris Depot Park. It’s much quieter with ample space, and there are benches available.
Stallings Park is also a good place to go. There’s minimal food traffic, and there are peaceful surroundings.
Otherwise, opt for the Z-Max Blvd parking lots off Hwy 49. Not only is there good visibility, but it’s easy to exit afterward, too.
Mid-Afternoon Cornhole Tournament
When it comes to activities and events, cornhole is a great one for assisted living during July 4th. It gets you outside, and there’s some physical activity, but not so much that it tires you out.
During the two-day festival at Harrisburg Park, there’s actually a cornhole competition. On Independence Day itself, the Mayor’s Invitational Cornhole Tournament runs from 4:15 pm to 5:15 pm.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cornhole player, you can always test your skill during this event. Who knows, you might just walk away a champion!
Whitewater Center’s Two-Day Celebration
Feel like looking outside of Harrisburg for patriotic senior celebrations? Then go to nearby Charlotte, which is also hosting a two-day celebration.
The US National Whitewater Center is having an expansive outdoor festival that’s festive yet peaceful at the same time. You can attend on July 3rd and 4th, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm and 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, respectively.
What makes this one of the most ideal holiday events for older adults is that there are gentle outdoor programs. Examples include:
- Morning SUP yoga
- Morning slow/flow yoga sessions
- 5K trail walk/run
- Daytime music
There are also multiple outdoor food vendors where you can grab snacks, food, and drinks. You can enjoy your fare on the picnic-style benches and shaded rest areas.
Charlotte Knights “SkyShow” Fireworks Game
This July 4th (or 3rd), combine your love for baseball and fireworks by attending the Charlotte Knights game. They’re playing at Truist Field, and there’s lots of accessible seating. Plus, the restrooms and concessions are easy to reach.
You’ll get to cheer on your favorite team while sitting in the stands. Then, after the game’s over, you’ll see a spectacular fireworks show right above your head.
If you don’t want to see the baseball game and would rather watch only the fireworks, you can do so from nearby Romare Bearden Park. There’s open-air seating there without stadium entry.
Matthews SportsPlex Fireworks
As far as memory care-friendly holidays go, we’d suggest the Matthews SportsPlex fireworks in Matthews, NC. It’s a small-town celebration that’s perfect for those who want to avoid crowd-heavy city events.
Do note that this event happens on the 3rd and not on Independence Day itself, and it starts at 9:00 pm. There are both paved and non-paved parking lots, and they’re both free.
Once you’re parked, you can view the overhead show from your car. Since you won’t have to get out or walk, it’s great if you’re not very mobile.
Gastonia Rotary Centennial Pavilion Celebration
A short drive away from Harrisburg is the Gastonia Rotary Centennial Pavilion Celebration. From 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm, there will be festivities in downtown Gastonia. You’ll find:
- Food trucks
- Vendors
- Entertainment
- Free KidsZone
Live music will start right at opening, so you’ll get to tap your toes while having fun and chowing down on tasty food. You can bring your own lawn chair or blanket so you don’t have to remain standing the entire time.
At 9:30 pm, the fireworks show will begin! They’ll play pre-recorded patriotic music, so it’s a fully immersive experience.
Go Experience These 4th of July Events
Whichever 4th of July events you choose to go to, just remember to celebrate at your own pace. If you find crowds overwhelming and need a good position for parades and fireworks, then try to arrive early.
In addition, the weather will most likely be hot. So don’t forget to wear appropriate clothes, stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and stick to shaded areas when possible.
TerraBella Harrisburg has kitchen staff that holds the Silver Spoon Award. Get in touch with us today to hear more about senior living in Harrisburg, NC.
