Those looking for fun on the Fourth of July have two options in Richmond County.
Independence Day celebrations in Ellerbe and Hamlet will feature entertainment throughout the afternoon before the fireworks begin.
Singer/songwriter John Patterson kicks things off at 2 p.m. at the pavilion in Hamlet, followed by Bob Dotson and Band at 4 p.m. Bristolina takes the main stage at 5 p.m.
There will also be a kids parade, where youngsters are encouraged to decorate and ride bicycles, tricycles and wagons, led down Main Street by the Hamlet Fire Department at 4 p.m.
Following the parade, there will be contests for the best decorated bike and most patriotic child.
City officials say there will also be new exhibits at the Visitors Center and Tornado building, including a military uniform display and the Silver Meteor.
There will be a bounce house with slide behind the Visitors Center at 1 p.m. and the fire department will be spraying water on Main Street in the afternoon.
Gates open at the Ellerbe Lions Club at 2 p.m. with several traditional activities, including the watermelon race, greasy pole climb and other relay games.
The event’s opening ceremony will begin a 4 p.m., with the club presenting its Lion and Citizen of the Year awards.
Two bands, Safety Committee and Dark Horse, will be providing live music for the event.
No pets or alcoholic beverages are allowed and coolers may be subject to search by law enforcement.
Fireworks at both locations will light up the night sky after dark.
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