Sponsorships
Want to sponsor us in 2024? Click here!
Merchandise
Missed your chance for a 2023 T-Shirt? Order here!
Donate
Want to support the festival with a donation? Click here!

Looking to sign up?

Registrations

Arts and Crafts Show
Arts and Crafts Show

The N.C. 4th of July Festival Arts and Crafts show had its humble beginnings as a street fair near Leggett's (now Ocean Outfitters) on East Moore Street. Over time, it grew in popularity and underwent a few location changes until it finally settled in Franklin Square Park. Franklin Square Park, situated adjacent to the Southport Baptist Church at the corner of N. Howe and E. West Streets, became its permanent home.

Concessions
Concessions

A variety of food and drink are available during the festival to fill you up as you partake in the numerous festival events. Your sense of smell will perk up when you near the concession areas. You will be tempted by the aroma of hot dogs, Greek gyros, Italian sausage, shrimp baskets, bar-b-que, blooming onions, and fries to funnel cakes, kettle corn, ice cream, cotton candy, and shaved ice.

Parade
Parade

The current N.C. 4th of July Festival Parade began in 1964 but has roots dating back to 1700’s, when the ladies of Smithville (now the City of Southport) dressed in white and marched through the town in observance of Independence Day. Today’s parade is much longer and has a bigger variety, with over 120 units filling the streets. An extra special treat is that the newly crowned Miss North Carolina makes one of her first appearances in the festival parade.

Freedom Flotilla
Freedom Flotilla

Decorate your vessel in Red, White, and Blue and come sail with us! Organized by the Southport Yacht Club.

Shag Contest
Shag Contest

The Shag Contest is organized by the Society of Brunswick Shaggers. What is shag dancing? The "Carolina Shag" originated along the area between Myrtle Beach, SC and Wilmington, NC in the 1940s.

Want to work with us?

Volunteer Today.