3 things happening in North Carolina: Fourth of July fireworks, Chimney Rock, and … Christmas?

Each Monday, Cardinal & Pine makes its picks for 3 things happening in North Carolina.  This week, June 30 – July 6.

The Fourth of July, which is this Friday, is of course a celebration of Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence. 

But did you know that folks in Mecklenburg County once claimed to have declared their independence a year before Jefferson ever put pen to paper? 

Ok, it’s probably not true, but it’s still fun to talk about. 

In 1819, while Jefferson was still alive, a North Carolina newspaper published what they referred to as the “Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.” According to the declaration, in May 1775, the people of Mecklenburg County declared themselves a “free and independent people.” 

Jefferson himself wrote that it was a hoax, and a 1907 review concluded that Jefferson was probably right and the whole thing was a mischaracterized rewrite of something called “the Mecklenburg Resolves,” a big set of anti-British statements made in 1775. 

In other words, North Carolinians might not have been the first to declare their independence from the British, but it’s clear some of us were spoiling for a fight. Plus, it makes NC look cool so we’re good with this historical goof.

Celebrations of Jefferson’s Fourth of July declaration abound in NC this week. Take a look below.

The Fireworks

Wherever you go this week, you’re likely to spot some fireworks. 

That said, Cardinal and Pine has written a guide to some of our favorite shows here, from Charlotte to Kill Devil Hills and Asheville. 

Check it out here. 

Chimney Rock is back in business

One of western North Carolina’s finest attractions is, officially, back in business. 

On Friday, state officials, including Gov. Josh Stein, celebrated the reopening of Chimney Rock State Park in a big way. Chimney Rock, one of the most picturesque locations out west, was flattened by Helene in September 2024. 

It’s inspiring to see it back up and running.

“We can support the region’s recovery just by showing up,” Stein said. “If you’re planning your summer vacation or a weekend getaway, make sure to experience something that makes western North Carolina unforgettable. And that includes beautiful Chimney Rock State Park.” 

Also, country music star Eric Church narrated a new tourism ad for western NC, which deserves and needs your money. Go spend your money, folks. 

Christmas in July? 

It’s hard to deck the halls when it’s so hot that you’re sticking to the seat in your car. But the town of West Jefferson, NC, has a fun annual event called “Christmas in July.” 

Why? Because, naturally, Ashe County is one of our most productive Christmas tree growing counties. Some western NC counties are good for growing Frasier firs because of their cooler and wetter climate. 

For more info on Christmas in July, go here. 

Ashe County, which is NC’s leading Christmas Tree producer, hosts Christmas in July this weekend. (Shutterstock)