Let Freedom Ring
Event Schedule
Emerald Isle’s Largest Celebration
Let Freedom Ring: A 4-Day Celebration on Emerald Isle
From July 2nd through July 5th, Emerald Isle comes alive with a full lineup of events designed for families, visitors, and locals alike. Each day brings its own energy — from daytime activities and community traditions to high-energy evenings and unforgettable nights.
🗓️ Thursday, July 2nd - Kickoff the Celebration
The energy starts early as Emerald Isle begins four days of fun, family, and summer tradition.
🚲 Deck Your Wheels Parade
📍 Louise Avenue (near waterpark) –
Line Up at 5:30pm | Parade Begins: 6:00 pm
🕘 Registration: Complete Waiver HERE | Free to Attend
Start the weekend with one of the island’s most loved traditions. Kids decorate bikes, wagons, and strollers in red, white, and blue and parade through the community in a celebration full of creativity and smiles. Golf carts are not permitted.
🎁 Goodie bags will be available for participants while supplies last, adding an extra layer of excitement for the kids.
🏊 Red, White & Blue Swim Party
📍 Salty Pirate Water Park
🕙 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Free to Attend
Keep the fun going and cool off at the Red, White & Blue Swim Party. Music, water slides, and a lively atmosphere make this the perfect stop after the parade for families and kids.
🎶 Emerald Fest Concert
📍 Western Ocean Regional Access
🕕 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
As the sun sets, the island shifts into evening mode with live music by the ocean. Bring your chairs, gather your friends, and enjoy a laid-back coastal concert experience to close out day one.
🗓️ Friday, July 3rd - High Energy & Action
Friday brings excitement, movement, and some of the most talked-about moments of the weekend.
🪂 Children of Fallen Heroes Aerial Performance
📍 Western Ocean Regional Access on the Beach
🕛 6:00 PM
Look to the sky — this is a crowd favorite. Professional skydivers descend from above and land directly on the beach in a thrilling exhibition set against the backdrop of the ocean.
🏃 Firecracker 5K Race
📍 Western Ocean Regional Access
🕖 7:00 PM Start
Lace up your running shoes and join us for the Firecracker 5K! Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing a personal best or simply looking to enjoy a scenic run with family and friends, the Firecracker 5K is the perfect way to start an unforgettable night of festivities.
🍻 Family After Party at The Growler
📍 The Growler, After the Race
🕗 8:00 PM
After a full day of activity, wind down and celebrate at The Growler. Free food will be provided for race participants. It’s the perfect place to relax, connect, and keep the weekend going with great vibes and a social atmosphere.
🗓️ Saturday, July 4th - Celebrate Freedom
The heart of the weekend — a day filled with meaning, music, and celebration.
🇺🇸 4th of July Freedom Walk
📍 Starting at Thirsty Surfer, Walking Emerald Isle Drive and Reuniting on the Bike Path
🕘 Ceremony 7:30 AM | Starts 8:00 AM
Take a moment to honor those who have served. The Veterans Walk brings the community together in recognition and gratitude, creating a meaningful start to the day.
🎶 Let Freedom Ring Concert in Support of Emerald Isle for Veterans
📍 Sharks Den Parking Lot
🕕 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
As the day turns into night, the island comes alive with a high-energy concert experience featuring:
- ZZ Top Notch (ZZ Top Tribute)
- Second Helping (Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute)
This is one of the biggest entertainment moments of the weekend — live music, crowd energy, and a true celebration of the holiday.
🗓️ Sunday, July 5th - Grand Finale
End the weekend with a night you won’t forget.
🌭 Celebrating Red White & You!
📍 Emerald Club
🕕 3:00 PM
Join us for this family fun gathering, hosted by Matt & Ashley. Free hot dogs and music!
🎆 Stars, Stripes & Fireworks Celebration
📍 Bogue Inlet Pier
🕕 9:00 PM
The grand finale of the weekend brings everyone together for an unforgettable evening.
Enjoy live music, a festive atmosphere, and free food, all leading up to a stunning fireworks display over the ocean. As the sky lights up, it’s the perfect ending to four days of celebration, connection, and summer memories.