We’ve all heard the thrilling story. On July 4, 1776, the 13 American colonies declared their independence from Great Britain. Although the colonies wouldn’t actually win the War for Independence and form the United States until eight years later, Massachusetts made July Fourth an official holiday in 1781 — and it stuck. Here we are, more than 200 years later, celebrating America’s birthday. Here is a list of local events celebrating the Fourth of July.

Friday, June 28

Fayetteville Woodpeckers vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans: Fireworks!

Segra Stadium invites the public to watch the Fayetteville Woodpeckers at 7 p.m. There will be a patriotic postgame fireworks show. Call 910-339-1989 for more information.

Mommy’s Time Off: 4th of July Crafts

Kidcreate Studio – Fayetteville invites parents to drop the kids off for some fun Fourth-of-Julythemed crafts. The studio requests that parents pack a nut-free snack and drink for their child. The event takes place from 9 a.m.-noon. Search the activity title on Eventbrite.com for more information.

Saturday, June 29

D-Day 75th Anniversary Exhibit

The Airborne & Special Operations Museum presents the 75th Anniversary D-Day Exhibit in tribute to our veterans this Fourth of July. This special event will honor those who fought on the “Day of Days” with priceless artifacts that have never been on display until now. Detailed histories and insights about the artifacts, including their significance and who owned them, will be included in the display.

The exhibit will be open Tuesday-Saturday until Aug. 31. Call 910-643-2778 for details.

Sunday, June 30

“Baseball in Fayetteville” exhibition

This exhibit highlights the 150-year history of baseball in Fayetteville and why our citizens love it so much. Located at the Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum, this free exhibit is open weekly from Tuesday-Saturday until Dec. 31. To learn more, call 910-433-1457.

Monday, July 1

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra’s “Independence Concert” and Fireworks

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra will be at Festival Park on July 1 for the concert of the year, presented by the city of Fayetteville. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the concert will include patriotic tunes and popular songs to kick off Independence Day celebrations. The night will end fittingly with fireworks. Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. For more information, call 910-433-4690.

Wednesday, July 3

Freedom Fest 2019

The games, fireworks and Southern barbecue buffet at this festival are sure to make the eve of Fourth of July unforgettable. Entertainment also includes part two of the Rock the Cradle Concert Series featuring Departure: The Journey Tribute Band. Freedom Fest takes place at Pinehurst Resort, 80 Carolina Vista Dr., Pinehurst, from 5-9 p.m. Visit www.thepinestimes.com/community-events/ pinehurst-events/9-pinehurst/121440-freedomfest-2019 for details.

Fayetteville Woodpeckers vs. Salem Red Fox: Independence Day Celebration

There’s nothing quite like celebrating USA with America’s favorite pastime. The game will take place at Segra Stadium at 6 p.m. and finish with the largest postgame fireworks show of the season. Call 910-339-1989 to learn more.

Fayetteville SwampDogs vs. High Point-Thomasville HiToms: Fireworks Extravaganza!

The SwampDogs are known for their postgame fireworks displays that celebrate Independence Day. The game starts 7:05 p.m. and takes place at J.P. Riddle Stadium. For more information, call 910-426-5900.

Thursday, July 4

Fort Bragg’s 50th Annual 4th of July Celebration

Fort Bragg’s famous annual 4th of July Celebration is held at Main Post Parade Field. Musical guests include 3 Doors Down and The Fifth. Other activities include parachute free-fall demonstrations, fireworks, the popular flag ceremony and food and beverages. Pets, barbecue grills and glass bottles are not allowed. The gates open at 1 p.m., the opening act starts at 3 p.m., and fireworks start at 10 p.m. For more information, call 910-396-9126.

37th Annual Hope Mills Independence Day Parade

The parade starts at 4975 Cameron Rd., Hope Mills, at 10 a.m. The public is invited to enjoy the 37th Annual Hope Mills Independence Day Party in the Park afterward. The party, taking place at Hope Mills Municipal Park Fields 1 and 2, runs from 4-10 p.m., with patriotic fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Live musical entertainment includes Open Road and the Guy Unger Band, and there will be food trucks, a large petting zoo, an inflatable waterslide and more. Call 910-426-4109 for details.

Firecracker 4 Miler

The run starts at North Carolina Veterans Park, 300 Bragg Blvd., at 7 a.m. There will also be an untimed 1-miler race, beginning at 7:50 a.m. at the same location. To register and to learn more, visit www.its-go-time.com and click on Firecracker 4 Miler.

Spring Lake’s Fourth of July Festival

This free festival takes place on Main Street, Spring Lake, from 3-10 p.m. For details, call 910- 436-0241 or search the event on Facebook.

Friday, July 5

MOB Entertainment presents: “Heat of the Summer”

The independence week festivities finish with a summertime concert. The Crown Coliseum is hosting multiplatinum-selling artist Jeezy live, along with Stunna 4 Vegas, Carolina Red and Tigo B. The show starts at 7 p.m. Call 888-257-6208 to purchase tickets.