2020 SUMMER UPDATE: While many gatherings have been canceled due to COVID-19 safety concerns, there are still places to watch fireworks in WNC while keeping a social distance and wearing a face mask. Find tips and details below and check back for updates. For more details on the status of North Carolina, what's open, and the current guidelines, see our Travel Updates for WNC.

What to expect for July 4th, 2020 fireworks in Western NC

Face masks are now required in public spaces. Bonus points for red, white, and blue designs!

in public spaces. Bonus points for red, white, and blue designs! Expect to see many recreational areas blocked off to discourage condensed crowds.

Most organizers are encouraging people to watch fireworks from inside their cars this year.

Arrive early to get a good parking spot. Some locations will have designated parking areas for viewing the show.

If you do choose to sit outside with a blanket or chairs, spread out into nearby areas with less foot traffic. Some areas will provide maps for suggested viewing locations.

DO follow state guidelines and maintain a 6ft social distance from others not in your group. This includes sidewalks and lines for food, beverages, and bathrooms.

Make it a day trip! Arrive early and explore the area. Each location has a guide for nearby things to do.

The entire week of July 4th features many Independence Day celebrations and firework shows in Asheville and many small towns in the western North Carolina mountains! Below is a big list of events and festivals - more than 30!

4th of July Celebrations & Fireworks near Asheville in Western North Carolina Towns

Bryson City: Enjoy the day in this top small town with plenty to do and see including shops, food trucks, and more! (See our Bryson City guide) Fireworks start at 10 PM.

Lake Junaluska: While they are not doing fireworks for the 4th, this beautiful lake community is offering overnight packages that include lodging, a lake cruise on the Cherokee IV, and a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard rental. Go to their website for more details.

Sylva: On the 4th, enjoy fireworks at dark in the picturesque "all-American" small town nestled in the mountains. Go to their website for more details.

Lake Lure: On the 4th, fireworks will be at Rumbling Bald Resort for their guests, but others enjoy from boats on the lake. Expect traffic bottlenecks after fireworks since there's just one road out!

Beech Mountain: Fireworks are on for Saturday, July 4, launched from the slopes of Beech Mountain. The annual Hog Roast will not take place at the resort this year but instead be a to-go only event, with the meals cooked, boxed, and distributed next to Fred’s General Mercantile (501 Beech Mountain Pkwy). Order tickets in advance for a discount, which includes admission and meal. The Beech Mountain Resort will be open 10 AM-6 PM for downhill mountain biking, scenic lift rides, Mile High Yoga, and more.

Hendersonville: July 4th fireworks will begin at 9:30 PM at 201 South Main (Visitor's Center). Look for the giant red balloon to signify the visibility of the fireworks show. If you can see the balloon, you can see the fireworks from your location. Go to their website.

Maggie Valley: Backyard Fourth, gates open on July 4 at 6 PM and fireworks at dark. Free admission. Alcohol-free. Festival Grounds, 3374 Soco Road Maggie Valley.

Sunset Fireworks Hike: Come celebrate the Fourth of July with an old-fashioned watermelon cutting, and view the Black Mountain fireworks display from the peak of Sunset Mountain, presented by the Swannanoa Valley Museum. Meet at 6:30 PM. The museum transports chairs up the mountain. Moderate 45-minute hike to the mountaintop. Cost: $40 for members, $55 for nonmembers, $30 under 18. To register, call 828-669-9566.

Mars Hill: Fireworks at dusk at the Mars Hill Recreation Park on Park Drive.

Morganton: On July 4th fireworks will be shot from Freedom Park at dark with plenty of parking areas around the park to watch from your car. Freedom Park will be closed off to maintain social distancing. Find more details on their website.

Reminder: Fireworks Illegal in National Forests

Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited on all national grassland and national forest lands year-round, regardless of weather conditions or holidays. Regulations are enforced, and violation is punishable as a misdemeanor by a fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment of not more than six months, or both.

For events throughout the year, see our list of seasonal calendars.