Bryson City, North Carolina’s Hometown Fourth of July Celebration

Come join us for an old-fashioned street festival in charming downtown Bryson City.

Our annual Fourth of July celebration begins with the Rotary Club Firecracker 5K; and then continues with 60+ local artisans and crafters with only handmade items, festival foods; and fun events including a five-station bungee trampoline and a Kidz Zone where you’ll find multiple bounce houses, a watermelon eating contest & more; not to mention an evening of incredible, local entertainment.

Chosen one of 9 small towns that go all out for the Fourth of July! USA Today

Even Fido is not forgotten – enter your best friend in the “Strut Your Mutt” event at Riverfront Park that awards ribbons for categories such as “Best Tail Wag” and “Looks Most Like Owner”.

Take a 7 pm ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Freedom Train and enjoy a BBQ picnic style dinner, spectacular sunset views on Fontana Lake, a visit from Uncle Sam. You’ll return in time for the 10 pm fireworks show.

As the day wanes and the final band exits the stage, listen to The Star Spangled Banner as you view one of the most spectacular fireworks shows in the Smokies!

For more information about Freedom Fest call 828-488-3681 or toll-free 800-867-9246, send an email.

Freedom Fest Schedule of Events

Saturday, July 4, 2020

July 2019 events – please check back for 2020
Rotary International Firecracker 5K Run
Swain County Administration Building (Mitchell St.)
Sign up and learn more
7 am: Walk-up registration & packet pickup
8 am: Race begins

Everett Street
10 am – 6 pm: Craft vendors.
10 am – 10 pm (fireworks): Food vendors.
10 am – 6 pm: 5-station bungee trampoline. $5 per 5 minute jump session.
6 pm: Troy Underwood – Country / Americana / Soul
8 pm: The Mountain Faith Band – Americana / Roots Band, semifinalist on America’s Got Talent, Momentum Vocalist of the Year, IBMA
9:55 pm: Singing of the National Anthem
10 pm: Best Fireworks Show in the Smokies!

Riverfront Park on Mitchell Street
11 am: “Strut Your Mutt” Pet Show / Contest
1 pm: Watermelon Eating Contest
1 pm – 6 pm: Kidz Zone multiple bounce houses. $5 wrist band for all-day play. Concessions available.

Sponsors of Bryson City Chamber of Commerce Events