North Charleston ready for area’s largest July 4 fireworks celebration at Riverfront Park

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess said it best himself: “It’s the Fourth of July, and who in America does not want to celebrate the Fourth of July.”

The city is inviting people from across the Lowcountry to visit beautiful Riverfront Park on Thursday for the area’s largest fireworks show and celebration.

“It’s not only a North Charleston celebration – it’s a national celebration,” said Mayor Burgess. “It’s at Riverfront Park where you can see the river there, you can see cargo ships go by.  […] Most importantly, you’re at the historical navy base, and we ought to understand what the military did for us so that we can have freedom in this country. And believe it or not, that is the true essence of what Fourth of July is—we as a nation believe in ourselves and we created this nation because we believe we can all can coexist together.”

Gates for the celebration open at 5 p.m. and the fireworks show will begin at nightfall. There will be music by DJ Natty Heavy, The Secrets, and The Chairmen of the Board. The event is free and open to the public.

“Come and take a look at a fireworks display that will rock your mind. You have the music pumping. I’m a DJ, I can get with that music, hyping it up, and then here comes the fireworks.  And we all who are there, we’re all thinking about one thing- just the experience of the Fourth of July,” Mayor Burgess said.

People are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks, and plenty of water.

Parking for the event will also be free and attendees should consider walking, biking, carpooling, or utilizing a rideshare service to and from the event.

Mayor Burgess said all access points will be open. He said the city has elevated its traffic resources to combat issues seen during recent events at Riverfront Park.

“You know, during High Water (Festival), we didn’t have access points open. But we’ve strategically opened those access points so we can allow people to come in and enjoy the festivities, he said. “It’s a whole lot different than it was a few months ago. It’s going to be a whole lot easier to get there.”

Leaving the event should also be easier this year. Mayor Burgess said they would reverse the entry plan to ensure a smooth exit after the fireworks.

People will not be allowed into the park before 5 p.m. and all bags will be searched upon entry. Grills will not be allowed during the festival and guests cannot bring fireworks or sparklers into the event.