Food and Fireworks in Chapel Hill

Ranked on Travel & Leisure Magazine’s Top 10 Best Towns for a July Fourth Celebration, Chapel Hill has food, fireworks, and fun for the whole family (and just couples, too!) this Independence Day. At UNC’s Kenan Memorial Stadium on Tuesday, join our town in celebrating our nation’s birthday with anything from watermelon eating contests to musical concerts and improv performances by comedians. An evening of care-free fun, hearty laughs, and a beautiful fireworks show is guaranteed to make your stay here memorable and enjoyable. You’ll also get to know our town a little more and see how we celebrate Independence Day the Chapel Hill way.

You can also skip the watermelon eating contest, face-painting, and other family activities and grab a relaxing dinner before the fireworks. The Lantern Restaurant is an excellent option on West Franklin Street for a romantic meal and glass of wine. The award-winning restaurant also now has the lantern garden open, where you can dine outside on the patio while still enjoying the full menu by Best Chef Southeast winner, James Beard. Visit the website to browse the menu or see photos of the outdoor lantern garden.           

Gates open at 7PM for the July 4^th celebration and the fireworks show starts at 9:30PM sharp.  A $1 donation fee is recommended at the gates upon entry. Visit the Town’s website for more information.