RALEIGH, N.C. -- Get ready for big changes for this year's Independence Day fireworks display in Raleigh.

  • Fireworks will be launched from near PNC Arena.
  • Bad sightlines and traffic woes were named as reasons for the move.
  • Parking will be free at the arena.       

It's moving to the State Fairground’s area to give those in attendance a better view.

The city says the decision to change the location to the Varsity Lot near PNC Arena and Carter-Finley Stadium was due to the changing skyline caused by construction and equipment in downtown Raleigh.

 

 

Also, the event caused massive traffic congestion on downtown streets.

Over the past six years, officials say fireworks were launched from two separate locations depending on their size, causing some visitors to see one display and not the other.

Gates at PNC Arena will open at 6 p.m. and the fireworks are scheduled to launch at 9:30 p.m. Parking at PNC Arena will be free and open to the public.

According to the city, other local events scheduled for Independence Day include:

  • The Keep RLGH Independent 4 Miler at Dorothea Dix Park
  • The 4th of July Day Party in Downtown
  • A concert featuring the Barenaked Ladies at Red Hat Amphitheater
  • The annual 4th of July Celebration at the State Capitol grounds

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