Fireworks, food trucks, live entertainment, children’s activities, and more await you at Wake Forest’s 2026 Independence Day Celebration.
Presented by Capital Chevrolet, this year’s celebration marks the 53rd anniversary of our community’s most popular summertime event promising two days’ worth of free fun and excitement for the entire family.
Fireworks Spectacular - Friday, July 3
The festivities get underway Friday, July 3, with the Fireworks Spectacular inside Husky Stadium on the campus of Heritage High School, 1150 Forestville Road. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the program begins at 6 p.m. Please note: No firearms, glass, alcohol, pets, smoking, tents, stakes, or shade structures are allowed on the school campus.
Children's Parade - Saturday, July 4
The Independence Day revelry continues Friday, July 4, with the popular Children’s Parade sponsored by the Wake Forest Community Partners. Area youngsters are invited to hop on their bicycles and be a part of their very own “walking parade.” The lineup begins at 10 a.m. at the intersection of North Main Street and West Juniper Avenue, near the Wake Forest Historical Museum, 414 N. Main St. The procession will get underway at 10:30 a.m.
Participation in the Children’s Parade is free, but bicyclists are encouraged to wear their helmets. Please note: Wake Forest Police will be on hand to manage traffic and help ensure the safety of the parade participants.
Art & More in the Park - Saturday, July 4
The Independence Day festivities conclude at Holding Park, 133 W. Owen Ave., with Art & More in the Park from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
The Wake Forest Woman’s Club will offer free arts and crafts activities inside the Wake Forest Community House, also located at 133 W. Owen Ave., including the creation of various patriotic-themed crafts for all ages and cupcake decorating. In addition, the Wake Forest Fire Department will provide free hotdogs, chips, and soft drinks in the gravel parking lot across the street from the Community House and distribute useful information on fire prevention and safety.