Festivities for the United States Semiquincentennial are underway as cities across North Carolina prepare to host celebrations for this once-in-a-lifetime event. This year’s Independence Day marks a special occasion — the 250th anniversary of the ratification of the Declaration of Independence, the founding document that announced the separation of the 13 colonies from Great Britain.
One such event celebrating the occasion is happening close to home. The Hope Mills Parks & Recreation returns with its 44th Independence Day Kickoff Celebration on Saturday, June 27.
“As our nation celebrates our 250th anniversary, we are excited to celebrate the spirit of America with an evening focused on community and family fun,” said Meagan Mereness, Special Events & Communications Coordinator for Hope Mills Parks & Recreation.
The celebration will be held at Hope Mills Municipal Park at 5766 Rockfish Road. According to Mereness, the park has served as the staple spot for the celebration for many years due to its accessibility, amenities and central location, providing ample space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy fireworks, live entertainment and much more. The Kickoff Celebration is free to enter, though it’s always a wise idea to keep some cash on hand for purchasing goods from vendors.
It all kicks off at 5 p.m. with live music from singer-songwriter Julia Golden. She hails from Carthage, NC, and recently appeared on Season 29 of the NBC television show “The Voice” as a member of Team Kelly, displaying her powerful vocals. The tunes will carry on late into the night with the renowned Southeast band Spare Change performing from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Based in La Grange, NC, the band bangs out tracks across a range of genres, including country, beach music, funk, rap, today’s Top 40 hits and classic rock.
Like in previous years, this year’s musical acts were chosen for their broad appeal, vibrant onstage energy and ties to the Tar Heel State. Attendees can expect an evening of family-friendly fun with fresh entertainment and the return of traditional favorites such as face painting and a petting zoo.
As a testament to our region’s plethora of delicious cuisines from varied cultures, attendees will also be able to indulge in good eats from over 16 food trucks. Options cover everything from sweet treats to schnitzel and Latin dishes.
A fireworks show at 9 p.m. will cap the night off with a patriotic display of red, white and blue bursting across the skies. The celebration allows people around the area to gather for an observance of patriotism, freedom and communal bonds, proving its enduring value to the community.
“Events like this help strengthen community connections, support local businesses and vendors and create lasting memories for residents of all ages,” Mereness said. “It is one of Hope Mills' signature events and showcases the pride we have in our town and the people who call it home.”
Following the Independence Day Kickoff on June 27, the city’s 44th Independence Day Parade will be held on Saturday, July 4 at 10 a.m., starting at Rockfish Elementary and ending at Hope Mills Middle School. Parade lineup starts at 8 a.m.
Mereness notes that holding the parade on a separate day is an intentional choice that was requested by residents. This offers an additional opportunity for the community to celebrate July Fourth on the day of, keeping the joy and anticipation going all week long. Attendees also have the peace of mind of escaping the blazing afternoon heat while participating in the parade.
Registration for the Independence Day Parade closes on June 20 at 5 p.m. and is open to parties traveling with various modes of transportation, including horses, motorcycles and floats.
Both events offer a safe and fun way to enjoy this milestone with loved ones and fellow residents, marking new memories while honoring our nation’s history.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of organizing this event is seeing the community come together,” Mereness said. “Seeing those moments of connection and joy makes all of the hard work worthwhile.”
For more information on the Kickoff Celebration and Parade, visit the Town of Hope Mills Parks & Recreation page at https://www.townofhopemills.com/349/Independence-Day-Celebration
(Photo: Residents of Hope Mills gathered for fireworks at the 2025 Fourth of July celebration. This year, in addition to the Fourth, the Town of Hope Mills will be celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States becoming a country. Photos courtesy of Town of Hope Mills Parks and Rec.)