20 Nashville Events in July 2025
Summer is in full swing, and Nashville is alive with can't-miss celebrations. From Fourth of July fireworks to live music, food festivals, rooftop parties, and family-friendly fun, July is packed with standout events. Here are some of our favorite ways to soak up the season in Music City.
July 1 – 3, 18 – 20 & 22 – 27, 2025: Nashville Sounds Home Games
Cheer on your Nashville Sounds in July as they go head-to-head with Memphis, Indianapolis, and Charlotte. On July 3, join the Sounds for a special Independence Day celebration at the ballpark filled with fun, fireworks, and a showdown with the Redbirds. As always, this month's schedule offers a variety of promotional nights, including Throwback Thursday and Sunday Family Fun Day. To see the complete schedule and purchase tickets, visit milb.com.
July 4, 2025: Red, White, & Boom
Celebrate July Fourth at Adventure Science Center's Red, White, & Boom event, complete with interactive exhibits, live science and magic shows, outdoor games, food trucks, and DJ-backed fireworks starting at 9:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $45 for adults and $35 for kids. (Note: Planetarium combos and member discounts are also available.) adventuresci.org
July 4, 2025: 4th of July Rooftop Party
Fairlane Hotel's 4th of July rooftop party is a 21+ bash featuring a backyard BBQ buffet, an open bar, live music, terrace seating, and stunning downtown fireworks views. General-admission tickets are $360 per person, which includes 20% gratuity and the option to stay overnight at the hotel. eventbrite.com
July 4, 2025: Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th
Downtown Nashville's Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th lights up from noon to 10 p.m., with free live music all afternoon (including headliner Dierks Bentley, plus Russell Dickerson, Niko Moon, Grace Bowers, Keesha Rainey and more), a family‑friendly Amazon Fun Zone, food trucks, and one of the nation's largest fireworks and drone shows synced to the Grammy‑winning Nashville Symphony at Ascend Amphitheater. visitmusiccity.com
July 4, 2025: 19th Annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival
The Music City Hot Chicken Festival at East Park kicks off with a fire truck parade at 10:30 a.m. The free event also includes hot chicken from top local spots, cold Yazoo beer, food vendors, live local music, and an amateur hot chicken cook‑off. The all‑ages, rain‑or‑shine event benefits Metro Parks & Recreation. hot-chicken.com
July 4, 2025: Free as a Bird: 4th of July VIP Celebration
High above downtown at Rare Bird, the Free as a Bird: 4th of July VIP Celebration takes flight at 7 p.m., with exclusive rooftop seating, a top‑shelf open bar, premium food stations and passed appetizers, a live DJ, and unbeatable views of fireworks. (Note: This event is 21+.) eventbrite.com
July 4, 2025: Music City July 4th 5K
The Music City July 4th 5K kicks off from Centennial Park with a scenic, all-ages run/walk past iconic Nashville landmarks. Runners receive a commemorative medal and participant tee, with a free Kids Fun Run for ages 5 and under, plus a dog-friendly option. runnash.com
July 4, 2025: The Emo Cowgirl 4th of July
Celebrate Independence Day at The Emo Cowgirl 4th of July rooftop pop‑up at L27. The event includes live music, themed cocktails (like the 'Am I Okay?' with Bacardi, lemon, and blueberry), festive bites, and unbeatable views of the Nashville Symphony-synchronized fireworks. Tickets start at $30. eventbrite.com
July 4, 2025: 4th of July at Play Playground
This Independence Day, head to one of downtown Nashville's most vibrant rooftops for an unforgettable night of games, music, and skyline views. Play Playground's immersive party experience includes bold cocktails, nostalgic games, and a live DJ spinning all night. Choose from VIP or General Admission options, both offering rooftop access, epic entertainment, and a front-row seat to the fireworks! playplayground.com
July 4, 2025: Fourth of July Pool Party
Conrad Nashville's Fourth of July Pool Party splashes into the hotel's stunning terrace-top pool deck at 10 a.m., featuring refreshing drinks, a festive buffet, and DJ tunes. Tickets are available via resortpass.com.
July 4, 2025: All-American July 4th Bash Buffet
Just an hour from Nashville at Wildwood Resort & Marina in Granville, TN, the July 4th All‑American Bash Buffet kicks off at 5 p.m. Enjoy everything from live music to a lakeside buffet and family-friendly activities. Admission is $29.99 for adults and $14.99 for kids 12 and younger. The regular food menu is also available. wildwoodresorttn.com
July 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025: Nashville Zoo's Summer Splash
The Summer Splash series at Nashville Zoo transforms Festival Field into a refreshing water wonderland every Saturday in July and August. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event includes splash attractions, themed animal enrichment activities, and educational talks on how animals stay cool. Admission is included with regular zoo entry. nashvillezoo.org
July 5, 2025: All You Need is Love Concert
Cheekwood's rescheduled All You Need is Love Concert with renowned Beatles tribute band, Forever Abbey Road, takes place on July 5 at 6 p.m. From beloved hits like 'Hey Jude' to 'Come Together,' this nostalgic evening offers a dynamic tribute for all ages. cheekwood.org
July 6, 2025: Star Wars: Under The Stars
Star Wars: Under the Stars with the Nashville Symphony lands at Ascend Amphitheater. Featuring conductor Nathan Aspinall, you can hear epic scores from across the Star Wars saga, like 'The Phantom Menace Suite,' 'The Rise of Skywalker: The Speeder Chase,' and more. Tickets start at $32. nashvillesymphony.org
July 11 & 12, 2025: Celebration of Summer Jam at Watkins Glen
The Celebration of Summer Jam at Watkins Glen hits Analog at the Hutton Hotel this month. The 21+ throwback celebration of the iconic 1973 festival features music by the Allman Brothers Band, Grateful Dead, and the Band. Tickets start at $15. analognashville.com
July 12, 2025: Summer Fest
Summer Fest at the Nashville Farmers' Market bursts into life on July 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free, family‑friendly celebration features live music by The Nashville Band, a kids' zone with pony rides and a petting zoo, cooking demos with tastings, Aztec dance performances, and more. nashvillefarmersmarket.org
July 12, 2025: Wine Tasting: France vs. Italy
On July 12, Yolan at The Joseph hosts 'Wine Tasting: France vs. Italy,' a guided showdown featuring four curated French and Italian wines paired with cheeses. Tickets are $85 per person, yolannashville.com
July 16, 2025: SOMMer Camp: French Riviera + Post Bastille Day Celebration
Miel Restaurant hosts a wine-tasting journey that features Pastis cocktails, curated wines like Domaine Tempier Blanc, and guided pairings in the restaurant's open-air barn event space. Tickets start at $75 per person. mielrestaurant.com
July 17, 2025: Daddy's Dogs x Liquor Lab: ''Tinis and Weenies'
In honor of National Hot Dog Day and Daddy's Dogs' 10th anniversary, Liquor Lab Nashville and Daddy's Dogs are teaming up to pair three creative martinis with hot dogs. Tickets are $65 per person. sevenrooms.com
July 25, 2025: Fish Fry-Day at the Loveless Barn
The Loveless Barn's annual Fish Fry‑Day features a Southern buffet, refreshments, bounce houses, carnival games, face painting, balloon art, live music, and a signature cocktail bar. Adult tickets are $29.99, while children's tickets (ages 5-12) are $14.99. lovelesscafe.com
July 26, 2025: Mid-Summer Night's Dream Party
W Nashville's Mid‑Summer Night's Dream Party lights up PROOF Rooftop on July 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Guests are invited to dress in white for an electrifying night with a live DJ, stunning skyline views, craft cocktails, and a chic indoor‑outdoor vibe. Tickets are available via eventbrite.com.
Have an amazing July, Nashville!
**********
To see even more great Nashville events, visit our Happenings calendar.
About the Author Anne Marie Hanna
Anne Marie is the Marketing & Editorial Coordinator at StyleBlueprint, where she helps tell the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you'll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.
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Style Blueprint
2 days ago
- Style Blueprint
20 Nashville Events in July 2025
Summer is in full swing, and Nashville is alive with can't-miss celebrations. From Fourth of July fireworks to live music, food festivals, rooftop parties, and family-friendly fun, July is packed with standout events. Here are some of our favorite ways to soak up the season in Music City. July 1 – 3, 18 – 20 & 22 – 27, 2025: Nashville Sounds Home Games Cheer on your Nashville Sounds in July as they go head-to-head with Memphis, Indianapolis, and Charlotte. On July 3, join the Sounds for a special Independence Day celebration at the ballpark filled with fun, fireworks, and a showdown with the Redbirds. As always, this month's schedule offers a variety of promotional nights, including Throwback Thursday and Sunday Family Fun Day. To see the complete schedule and purchase tickets, visit July 4, 2025: Red, White, & Boom Celebrate July Fourth at Adventure Science Center's Red, White, & Boom event, complete with interactive exhibits, live science and magic shows, outdoor games, food trucks, and DJ-backed fireworks starting at 9:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $45 for adults and $35 for kids. (Note: Planetarium combos and member discounts are also available.) July 4, 2025: 4th of July Rooftop Party Fairlane Hotel's 4th of July rooftop party is a 21+ bash featuring a backyard BBQ buffet, an open bar, live music, terrace seating, and stunning downtown fireworks views. General-admission tickets are $360 per person, which includes 20% gratuity and the option to stay overnight at the hotel. July 4, 2025: Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th Downtown Nashville's Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th lights up from noon to 10 p.m., with free live music all afternoon (including headliner Dierks Bentley, plus Russell Dickerson, Niko Moon, Grace Bowers, Keesha Rainey and more), a family‑friendly Amazon Fun Zone, food trucks, and one of the nation's largest fireworks and drone shows synced to the Grammy‑winning Nashville Symphony at Ascend Amphitheater. July 4, 2025: 19th Annual Music City Hot Chicken Festival The Music City Hot Chicken Festival at East Park kicks off with a fire truck parade at 10:30 a.m. The free event also includes hot chicken from top local spots, cold Yazoo beer, food vendors, live local music, and an amateur hot chicken cook‑off. The all‑ages, rain‑or‑shine event benefits Metro Parks & Recreation. July 4, 2025: Free as a Bird: 4th of July VIP Celebration High above downtown at Rare Bird, the Free as a Bird: 4th of July VIP Celebration takes flight at 7 p.m., with exclusive rooftop seating, a top‑shelf open bar, premium food stations and passed appetizers, a live DJ, and unbeatable views of fireworks. (Note: This event is 21+.) July 4, 2025: Music City July 4th 5K The Music City July 4th 5K kicks off from Centennial Park with a scenic, all-ages run/walk past iconic Nashville landmarks. Runners receive a commemorative medal and participant tee, with a free Kids Fun Run for ages 5 and under, plus a dog-friendly option. July 4, 2025: The Emo Cowgirl 4th of July Celebrate Independence Day at The Emo Cowgirl 4th of July rooftop pop‑up at L27. The event includes live music, themed cocktails (like the 'Am I Okay?' with Bacardi, lemon, and blueberry), festive bites, and unbeatable views of the Nashville Symphony-synchronized fireworks. Tickets start at $30. July 4, 2025: 4th of July at Play Playground This Independence Day, head to one of downtown Nashville's most vibrant rooftops for an unforgettable night of games, music, and skyline views. Play Playground's immersive party experience includes bold cocktails, nostalgic games, and a live DJ spinning all night. Choose from VIP or General Admission options, both offering rooftop access, epic entertainment, and a front-row seat to the fireworks! July 4, 2025: Fourth of July Pool Party Conrad Nashville's Fourth of July Pool Party splashes into the hotel's stunning terrace-top pool deck at 10 a.m., featuring refreshing drinks, a festive buffet, and DJ tunes. Tickets are available via July 4, 2025: All-American July 4th Bash Buffet Just an hour from Nashville at Wildwood Resort & Marina in Granville, TN, the July 4th All‑American Bash Buffet kicks off at 5 p.m. Enjoy everything from live music to a lakeside buffet and family-friendly activities. Admission is $29.99 for adults and $14.99 for kids 12 and younger. The regular food menu is also available. July 5, 12, 19 & 26, 2025: Nashville Zoo's Summer Splash The Summer Splash series at Nashville Zoo transforms Festival Field into a refreshing water wonderland every Saturday in July and August. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event includes splash attractions, themed animal enrichment activities, and educational talks on how animals stay cool. Admission is included with regular zoo entry. July 5, 2025: All You Need is Love Concert Cheekwood's rescheduled All You Need is Love Concert with renowned Beatles tribute band, Forever Abbey Road, takes place on July 5 at 6 p.m. From beloved hits like 'Hey Jude' to 'Come Together,' this nostalgic evening offers a dynamic tribute for all ages. July 6, 2025: Star Wars: Under The Stars Star Wars: Under the Stars with the Nashville Symphony lands at Ascend Amphitheater. Featuring conductor Nathan Aspinall, you can hear epic scores from across the Star Wars saga, like 'The Phantom Menace Suite,' 'The Rise of Skywalker: The Speeder Chase,' and more. Tickets start at $32. July 11 & 12, 2025: Celebration of Summer Jam at Watkins Glen The Celebration of Summer Jam at Watkins Glen hits Analog at the Hutton Hotel this month. The 21+ throwback celebration of the iconic 1973 festival features music by the Allman Brothers Band, Grateful Dead, and the Band. Tickets start at $15. July 12, 2025: Summer Fest Summer Fest at the Nashville Farmers' Market bursts into life on July 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free, family‑friendly celebration features live music by The Nashville Band, a kids' zone with pony rides and a petting zoo, cooking demos with tastings, Aztec dance performances, and more. July 12, 2025: Wine Tasting: France vs. Italy On July 12, Yolan at The Joseph hosts 'Wine Tasting: France vs. Italy,' a guided showdown featuring four curated French and Italian wines paired with cheeses. Tickets are $85 per person, July 16, 2025: SOMMer Camp: French Riviera + Post Bastille Day Celebration Miel Restaurant hosts a wine-tasting journey that features Pastis cocktails, curated wines like Domaine Tempier Blanc, and guided pairings in the restaurant's open-air barn event space. Tickets start at $75 per person. July 17, 2025: Daddy's Dogs x Liquor Lab: ''Tinis and Weenies' In honor of National Hot Dog Day and Daddy's Dogs' 10th anniversary, Liquor Lab Nashville and Daddy's Dogs are teaming up to pair three creative martinis with hot dogs. Tickets are $65 per person. July 25, 2025: Fish Fry-Day at the Loveless Barn The Loveless Barn's annual Fish Fry‑Day features a Southern buffet, refreshments, bounce houses, carnival games, face painting, balloon art, live music, and a signature cocktail bar. Adult tickets are $29.99, while children's tickets (ages 5-12) are $14.99. July 26, 2025: Mid-Summer Night's Dream Party W Nashville's Mid‑Summer Night's Dream Party lights up PROOF Rooftop on July 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Guests are invited to dress in white for an electrifying night with a live DJ, stunning skyline views, craft cocktails, and a chic indoor‑outdoor vibe. Tickets are available via Have an amazing July, Nashville! ********** To see even more great Nashville events, visit our Happenings calendar. About the Author Anne Marie Hanna Anne Marie is the Marketing & Editorial Coordinator at StyleBlueprint, where she helps tell the stories shaping the South. Outside of work, you'll likely find her on a porch with a coffee and a good book, gardening, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family.
Style Blueprint
4 days ago
- Style Blueprint
The Best 4th of July Events Across the South: Food, Fireworks & More!
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Take advantage of the long holiday weekend with a road trip! From nostalgic small-town festivities to rockin' music lineups, we've rounded up an exciting list of Fourth of July events to kickstart your holiday planning. Organized by state, these are the parties around the South that everyone is talking about. ALABAMA Mobile, AL | 4th of July Celebration Friday, July 4, 2025 — Head to Cooper Riverside Park & Mardi Gras Park for one of Alabama's most spirited July 4th celebrations. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. sharp, but arrive early to kick off the party in Mardi Gras Park. You can expect a Kids' Zone with bounce houses, games, and activities for all ages, local vendors, and live music by Tip Tops and Fly By Radio. Friday, July 4, 2025 — Snag a spot on the grassy lawn at Lake Martin's AMP for one of the Southeast's largest Fourth of July fireworks displays. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the music kicks off around 6:30 p.m. Lake Martin's favorite cover band, The Bank Walkers, and Taylor Hicks will supply the tunes, and the 9 p.m. fireworks show is slated to be the best one ever. The 4th of July Boat Parade from Russell Marina begins at 10 a.m. Pin FLORIDA Thursday, July 3, and Friday, July 4, 2025 — 30A offers multiple 4th of July celebrations. A popular event includes Grayton Beach's annual 4th of July parade at 8 a.m. at The Red Bar. The event includes cars, scooters, golf carts, floats, boats, and vehicles of all kinds adorned in their most festive trappings. Red, White, and Baytowne is another standout celebration. The annual event includes a spectacular fireworks display that begins at 9:15 p.m. as well as crafts, face painting, and balloon sculpting. SB Tip: To see a comprehensive list of Fourth of July events happening on 30A and South Walton, visit Thursday, July 3, through Sunday, July 6, 2025 — PCB is one of the best places on the Gulf Coast for three nights of impressive fireworks shows and festive events. The fun starts with Sunday night's Light Up The Bay show. On Monday, Light Up The Gulf's fireworks will boom from Boardwalk Beach Resort while Freedom Rocks works with participating waterfront restaurants for great views of the Grand Lagoon Bridge. On Tuesday, don't miss the Gulf's largest displays from Russell-Fields City Pier and the M.B. Miller County Pier. Pin St. Augustine, FL | Fireworks Over the Matanzas Friday, July 4, 2025 — St. Augustine's Fourth of July celebration includes a live music concert in the Plaza de la Constitución and a spectacular fireworks display over the historic bayfront and the Castillo de San Marcos. 'Fireworks Over the Matanzas' is one of the most impressive fireworks displays on the East Coast, featuring 5,000 individual shells exploding as high as 2,000 feet and as low as 100 feet. The 20-minute show is choreographed to patriotic music over an extensive sound system that carries over the entire bayfront area. GEORGIA Pine Mountain, GA | Callaway Resort & Gardens Star Spangled Beach Party Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5, 2025 — Callaway has a weekend-long bash of beach activities, live music, food trucks, contests, and spectacular fireworks displays. Book a room at the resort to maximize your outdoor adventures, waterside relaxation, and indulgent culinary options. Explore Aqua Island, play putt-putt, take out pedal boats, rent beach bikes, snack beachside, and more. Friday, July 4, 2025 — Georgia's darling coastal city provides a free Fourth of July event with local food and fireworks. Savannah's Waterfront showcases the city's signature fireworks show starting at 9:30 p.m. Many waterfront restaurants will be offering dinner and drink specials! Pin St. Simons, GA | 41st Annual Sunshine Festival Friday, July 4, 2025 — This beloved festival at Pier Village is a longtime St. Simons tradition. After the 5K or one-mile fun run, head to the Crafts In The Village artisan festival and see the fireworks on the pier around 9 p.m. Nearby coastal community Sea Island also holds exclusive July 4th celebrations for its guests and residents. KENTUCKY Bowling Green, KY | 54th Annual Thunderfest Saturday, June 28, 2025 — Thunderfest at the National Corvette Museum Amphitheater fills Bowling Green with fireworks and fun each year. Celebrate America's favorite holiday at the home of the Corvette, with food trucks, live music, children's activities, and more. This fundraiser gives 100% of the proceeds to local non-profit organizations. Campbellsville-Taylor, KY | 49th Annual 4th of July Celebration Saturday, June 28 through Saturday, July 5, 2025 — Celebrate the Fourth of July for a week straight! This weeklong festival is one of Kentucky's largest and features a full schedule of events, including hot air balloons, live music, parades, face painting, outdoor movie nights, and plenty of food vendors. The celebration wraps up with a spectacular fireworks display on July 4th at 10 p.m. that lights up the sky over Miller Park. Pin Friday, July 4, 2025 — This beloved annual event lights up the downtown riverfront with live music starting at 5:00 p.m in McConnell Plaza and an unforgettable fireworks show at approximately 9:15 p.m. The celebration gets even bigger with fireworks launching from multiple locations across the city, offering a spectacular skyline view no matter where you are! Friday, July 4, 2025 — Learn about Stephen Foster's story of becoming the 'father of American music' and celebrate the fourth! Expect bouncy houses, games, and cupcakes along with a performance with costumes, singing, and dancing for Stephen's birthday. To end the night, fireworks will be set off immediately following the show. Paducah, KY | Paducah Independence Day 2025 Friday, July 4, 2025 — Experience Paducah's Riverfront along with food, live music, and drinks this Independence Day! LOUISIANA New Orleans, LA | Go 4th on the River Friday, July 4, 2025 — Celebrate the Fourth of July on the Historic Downtown New Orleans Riverfront. The free admission fireworks display begins at 9 p.m. over the Mighty Mississippi River and can be viewed from both river banks. Similar to years past, this year's show includes dueling displays, making for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration. MISSISSIPPI Saturday, June 7, 2025 — Get ready to kick off summer in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, at the 20th Annual Red, White & Blueberry Festival! This beloved community event will take place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 p.m. at the L&N Depot Plaza. Homemade jams, complimentary ice cream topped with berries, and other baked goods can be expected alongside local vendors and cooking sessions at the festival! Greenwood, MS | Stars and Stripes Thursday, June 26, 2025 — Stop by The Park Between the Bridges starting at 6:30 p.m. to enjoy games, food vendors, and live music! Entertainment by Chapel Hart begins at 7:30 and as night falls, gather at Veterans Bridge for a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the Delta sky. Ridgeland, MS | Celebrate America Balloon Glow Friday, June 27, 2025 — Festivities kick off at 6 p.m. at Northpark East Field with the awe-inspiring Balloon Glow at dusk. Enjoy a night filled with glowing hot air balloons, live music, delicious local food vendors, and family-friendly fun as Ridgeland celebrates America in style. Bring your chairs, blankets, and patriotic spirit for an unforgettable night. Long Beach, MS | 4th of July Jubilee Saturday, June 28, 2025 — Get ready for a star-spangled celebration all day long at the 3rd Annual 4th of July Jubilee in Downtown Long Beach! The 12-hour-long festival starts off with local vendors from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., followed by a parade that sets the stage for a patriotic evening. Keep the party going with Coastal Daiquiri's block party from 7 to 11 p.m., and look to the sky for a fireworks finale at 8:45 p.m. Bay St. Louis, MS | 41st Annual Crab Fest Thursday, July 3, through Saturday, July 5, 2025 — Join attendees from all over to partake in some of the best crab (and other shellfish delicacies) to be had in the state of Mississippi! Natchez, MS | 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza Friday, July 4, 2025 — Stop by the Mississippi River to watch a magnificent fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.! The event is free, but donations are welcome, and it will last about 22 minutes. There is no better way to get in the patriotic mood! NORTH CAROLINA Southport, NC | NC 4th of July Festival Tuesday, July 1, through Friday, July 4, 2025 — For over 200 years, this charming maritime community (the set of many celebrated films) has celebrated our nation's independence in a HUGE way. Fifty thousand people join the fun in Southport each July. There's an artisan craft market, a full day of beach activities, rockin' live musical performances, a flag ceremony, a firefighter competition, and more. This is a July 4th bucket list item. Cashiers, NC | Annual Fireworks Extravaganza On The Green Thursday, July 3, 2025 — The Village Green, a 13.2-acre park in the heart of Cashiers, hosts its annual Fireworks Extravaganza On The Green. Attendees are invited to bring their own lawn chairs, food, and drinks. The fireworks display begins around 9 p.m. and is expected to last about 20 minutes. Pin Cabarrus County, NC | Annual Harrisburg July 4th Celebration Thursday, July 3, and Friday, July 4, 2025 — The authentically Americana setting of Cabarrus County is known for the Charlotte Motor Speedway and its delicious BBQ and brews. The free two-day July 4th Celebration in Harrisburg has become one of the region's most well-attended Independence Day events. Fireworks and tunes by Chris Taylor and the Rumor will kick off Thursday night, and on Friday, enjoy more fireworks and musical performances. Charlotte, NC | Fourth of July Celebration Thursday, July 3 and Friday, July 4, 2025 — Stop by the Whitewater Center for yoga, a 5k race, and live music to spend your holiday outdoors! Events begin at 6:30 p.m on Thursday and 8:30 a.m on Friday. Asheville, NC | Independence Day Block Party Friday, July 4, 2025 — As the sun sets, enjoy an evening of free live music headlined by The Pink Stones, along with delicious food and drinks from local vendors. The night caps off with a fireworks show that lights up the sky in a classic celebration of freedom and community. Greensboro, NC | Fun Fourth Freedom Fest 2025 Friday, July 4, 2025 — Join the city of Greensboro for a festive excursion celebrating Independence Day with a fun run and other festivities! From 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., visitors can enjoy live music, strolling performers, and much more! Cary, NC | Independence Day Celebration Friday, July 4, 2025 — Listen to the music provided by the North Carolina Symphony along with activities for children and a fireworks show to finish off the night. Admission is free, and there will be space for picnics or tables available for purchase! SOUTH CAROLINA Lake Murray, SC (near Columbia, SC) | Annual 4th of July Celebration Saturday, June 28, 2025 — Lake Murray's famous Patriotic Boat Parade starts at noon at Bomb Island and features jaw-dropping boat decorations created by locals and visitors alike! The parade is viewable from the park sites at the Lake Murray Dam or by boat. Later that evening, the largest fireworks display in South Carolina launches at about 9:30 p.m. from Spence Island and Dreher Island. Charleston, SC | 4th of July Fireworks Blast Friday, July 4, 2025 — This beloved Holy City event returns this year with food trucks, fireworks, and live music at the most patriotic venue in South Carolina: the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Starting at 7 p.m., the land-side party includes live music, six food trucks, and a fireworks show above Charleston Harbor after sundown. TENNESSEE Springfield, TN | Annual Freedom Fest Thursday, July 3, 2025 — Head to the Robertson County Fairgrounds to celebrate Independence Day with carnival rides, inflatables, food trucks, and vendors. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. and are free to attend. Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. Gatlinburg, TN | Annual Fourth of July Midnight Parade and Fireworks Finale Thursday, July 3, and Friday, July 4, 2025 — Can you stay up late enough to see the award-winning Fourth of July Midnight Parade (the first one in the nation each year!)? Floats, patriotic displays, and balloons line Gatlinburg's Parkway beginning at 12:01 a.m. Then, stick around for all-day festivities, including the annual River Raft Regatta — a race of unmanned floatables down the Little Pigeon River — and then the Fireworks Finale. Chattanooga, TN | Pops on the River Thursday, July 3, 2025 — Stop by Coolidge Park at 3 p.m for an Independence Day celebration! There will be local vendors, live music, and food to enjoy the holiday. Clarksville, TN | Independence Day Celebration Thursday, July 3, 2025 — This family-friendly event will provide delicious food, live music, and entertaining activities from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, July 4, 2025 — Downtown Music City once again hosts the biggest fireworks show in Nashville history alongside pyrotechnics synchronized to a live performance by the GRAMMY-winning Nashville Symphony. This year's musical lineup includes Dierks Bentley, Russell Dickerson, Grace Bowers, and more. Pin Johnson City, TN | Pepsi Independence Day Fireworks Celebration Friday, July 4, 2025 — Don't forget to check out the 38th Annual Pepsi Independence Day celebration from 4-11 p.m at Freedom Hall! Expect food, children's activities, and an amazing firework show to end the night. Friday, July 4, 2025 — Get ready for the biggest Red, White & BOOM yet from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Original Putnam County Fairgrounds. Enjoy live music from local band KOUZIN and Bon Jovi tribute band Slippery When Wet, plus food trucks, military displays, and Tennessee's second-largest fireworks show synchronized to patriotic music. Admission and parking are free, so bring a lawn chair and your patriotic spirit! Happy Fourth! ********** To explore more great Southern events, visit our Happenings calendar! About the Author Elizabeth Master
Winnipeg Free Press
5 days ago
- Winnipeg Free Press
Q&A: Pulitzer Prize winner Robin Givhan chronicles Virgil Abloh's rise to fashion fame
NEW YORK (AP) — With his calm and cool demeanor, fashion disruptor and multi-hyphenate Virgil Abloh artfully challenged the fashion industry's traditions to leave his mark as a Black creative, despite his short-lived career. In the years since his 2021 death at just 41, his vision and image still linger. Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Robin Givhan sheds new light on how Abloh ascended the ranks of one of the top luxury fashion houses and captivated the masses with her latest book, 'Make It Ours: Crashing the Gates of Culture with Virgil Abloh.' In the book out Tuesday, Givhan documents Abloh's early life growing up as the son of Ghanaian immigrants in Rockford, Illinois, his days as graduate student studying architecture and his working relationship and friendship with Kanye West. Before taking the helm of Louis Vuitton as the house's first Black menswear creative director, Abloh threw himself into his creative pursuits including fine art, architecture, DJing and design. Abloh remixed his interests with his marketing genius and channeled it into fashion with streetwear labels like Been Trill and Pyrex Vision. These endeavors were the launchpad for his luxury streetwear label Off-White, known for its white diagonal lines, quotation marks, red zip ties and clean typeface. Off-White led to Abloh's collaboration with Ikea, where he designed a rug with 'KEEP OFF' in all-white letters and also with Nike where he deconstructed and reenvisioned 10 of Nike's famous shoe silhouettes. Throughout his ventures, Abloh built a following of sneakerheads and so-called hypebeasts who liked his posts, bought into his brands and showed up in droves outside his fashion shows. Social media made Abloh accessible to his fans and he tapped into that. Off-White had built a loyal following and some critics. Givhan, a Washington Post senior critic-at-large, openly admits that she was among the latter early on. Givhan said she was fascinated that Abloh's popularity was more than his fashion. 'For me, there was something of a disconnect really,' she said. 'That here was this person who had clearly had an enormous impact within the fashion industry and outside of the fashion industry, and yet it wasn't really about the clothing. It was about something else.' For her latest project, Givhan spoke with The Associated Press on how she approached each of Abloh's creative undertakings and his legacy during a period of heightened racial tension in America. This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity. AP: Tell me why you felt it was important to include the context of what was happening at the time Abloh was growing up as well as on his rise up through the fashion industry, with him ultimately ending up at Louis Vuitton. GIVHAN: Fashion doesn't just sort of happen in a vacuum. People are the product of their parents, their family, their environment, their timing, their interests, all of those things. I always like to see, what is swirling around people when they make certain decisions? What is sort of in the water that you're absorbing, that you are not even conscious that you're absorbing it. AP: Can you talk about the process of writing about all of his creative endeavors and how they shaped his career? GIVHAN: The skater culture — in part because it was such a sort of subculture that also had a very specific aesthetic and was such a deep part of the whole world of streetwear — and then the DJing part intrigued me because so much of his work as a designer seems to reflect a kind of DJ ethos, where you're not creating the melody and you're not creating the lyrics. You're taking these things that already exist and you're remixing them and you're responding to the crowd and the crowd is informing you. And so much of that, to me, could also be used to describe the way that he thought about fashion and the way that he designed. AP: What role would you say that Virgil has had in the fashion industry today? GIVHAN: He certainly raised the question within the industry of what is the role of the creative director? How much more expansive is that role? … And I do think he has really forced the question of how are we defining luxury? Like what is a luxury brand? And is it something that is meant to sort of have this lasting impact? Is it supposed to be this beautifully crafted item? Or is it really just a way of thinking about value and beauty and desirability? And if it's those things, then really it becomes something that is quite sort of quite personal and can be quite based on the community in which you live. AP: How did he use social media to his advantage and to help catapult his career? GIVHAN: He really used social media as a way of connecting with people as opposed to just sort of using it as kind of a one-way broadcast. He was telling his side of things, but he was also listening to other people. He was listening to that feedback. That's also what made him this larger-than-life person for a lot of people, because not only was he this creative person who was in conversation with fans and contemporaries, but he was this creative person inside. He was this creative person at the very top of the fashion industry. For a lot of people, the idea that you could ostensibly have a conversation with someone at that level, and they would seemingly pull back the curtain and be transparent about things — that was really quite powerful. AP: You write about his relationship to Kanye in the book. Were you able to get any input from him on their relationship for the book? GIVHAN: Their individual ambitions, aesthetic ideas and curiosity kind of propelled them forward in separate directions. I did reach out to Kanye after a lot of the reporting because he obviously is this thread that is woven throughout the book. And, ultimately, he elected not to engage. But I was lucky enough to get access to an unpublished conversation that Virgil had had around, I think it was 2016-ish, where he talked at length about his working relationship with Kanye and sort of the differences between them and the similarities and the ways in which … Kanye inspired him and sort of the jet fuel that he got from that relationship. More than anything, because Virgil's personality was in so many ways kind of the opposite of Kanye's, that for every door that Kanye was kind of pounding on, Virgil was able to politely sort of walk through. AP: Why do you think his legacy continues to persist? GIVHAN: For one, he had such an enormous output of work. I think there's a lot of it to consider. Also, sadly, because his career was cut so short that there is this sense of someone who sort of stops speaking mid-sentence. I've been thinking about how Virgil might have responded, how his creativity might have responded to this moment because so much shifted post-George Floyd that like this is another inflection point and it makes me wonder, 'OK, how would he have responded today?' And with the person who said, 'I'm not a rebel and I'm not a flame thrower,' would he have picked up some matches? I don't know.
