Raleigh rolled out a patriotic celebration for the ages this Fourth of July weekend, marking the nation’s 250th anniversary with a series of festive events that drew crowds to the heart of the city.
The “First in Freedom” parade wound through downtown Raleigh on July 4th, with thousands turning out to take part in the milestone commemoration. The celebration continued into the evening at Dix Park, where fireworks lit up the summer sky as part of the America 250 NC festivities presented by ABC11.
Perhaps the most moving moment of the holiday weekend came at the North Carolina State Capitol, where 49 people from 25 countries were sworn in as United States citizens during a special naturalization ceremony held in honor of the 250th anniversary. The ceremony brought together new Americans from across the globe, each taking the oath of citizenship at one of the state’s most historic landmarks.
The NC Freedom Fest in Raleigh also drew many attendees on July 4th, adding to the spirit of community celebration that filled the city throughout the holiday.
Together, the parade, fireworks, and naturalization ceremony made for a Fourth of July that Raleigh residents are sure to remember — a joyful, community-wide salute to 250 years of American independence.
Sources: WRAL, ABC11 News
