If you haven't already been, or even if you have, I encourage you this year to try out Downtown Wilmington's spectacular display of fireworks and festivities. This year the street fest starts at 5:00 on July 4th and fireworks at 9:00! There is plenty of great music, food, and fun. The fireworks are set off from Wilmington's historic battleship, harbored in the Cape Fear River, and can be seen up and down Water street. Some people choose to go to parking deck's to view, others prefer River front restaurants such as The George, Elijas, The Pilot House, or several more. If you prefer a "fun bar," scene, then I would check out the Reel Cafe or Level 5 Rooftop Bars. But be prepared for a crowd, loud music, and lots of dancing! If you have any friends with River Front Condo's now would be the time to cozy up and offer to bring some beer and wine. The show is amazing and has the reputation of being one of the best shows of all the coastal Carolina's.
Now, if you feel like being classy, and eating at a fine dining place prior to the festivities, I would suggest Caprice Bistro, Delux, Cafe Phoenix, or Circa. These all require a fat wallet, but I have never been disappointed by the food. If you have screaming kids you may feel a bit more comfortable grabbing a slice of pizza at The Slice of Life or, the Copper Penny is always a classic.(order the chestnut chicken). Front St Brewery would be my selection if draft beer and good food is your only requirement. Now if Beer or Wine is your only real concern, head to Cape Fear Beer and Wine, or the new Wine Bar on Front. Some of you real casual folks, may feel the most comfortable at the Duck and Dive.
Featured music this year is by the Daniel Parish Band. If you go to http://www.wilmingtondowntown.com/ you can preview more of the music for the weekend and other venues you can catch. The Reel Cafe always has music on the first floor of the Beer Garden outside. The Whisky always is a great place for live music and many local bands.
There are plenty of art galleries for you art lovers. Check out Front St, and also The New Castle Art and Antique district, if you feel like rubbing noses with some of downtown's more cultured folks.
If parking concerns you, click on the link below to see which indicates which streets will be closed. Each year, I have preferred to park on 6th, 7th, or 8th, and just walk. I think that Dock, Orange, Ann, Church, Chestnut and Princess st are the best streets to park and walk down. As you head along the gorgeous cobblestone streets lined with mature trees and historic homes, you will be glad you decided to go the scenic route. I can't promise it won't be a soldering 90 degrees, so dress cool with comfortable shoes because there is one big hill. I would also suggest a bit of bug spray for the evening.
Now all you have left to do, is call some friends and family and go celebrate our nations independence!