ROCKINGHAM — Fireworks will light up the Marston sky this summer for the inaugural “4th of July at the Rock” extravaganza.
Rockingham Speedway and Entertainment Complex officials announced the event, in partnership with the city of Rockingham and Richmond County, late Wednesday.
“This is a great opportunity to have the community come together and enjoy the 4th of July here at The Rock,” said Frank Bloom, operating partner and vice president of events, marketing and development. “We look forward to sharing our space and celebrating Independence Day with our neighbors from all around the region.”
While not many details have yet been announced, officials say there will be live music, kids activities and bounce houses and, of course, a fireworks show, which is currently in the design stage.
“The fireworks show … is going to be one of the largest fireworks shows in the entire southeast, if not the largest between Washington D.C. and Atlanta according to the fireworks vendor,” Bloom said in an email.
Bloom said many corporate partners are being assembled alongside of the “vital support” of the city of Rockingham and Richmond County.
“We’re very excited about it,” said Rockingham Mayor Steve Morris. “It should be a great evening.”
Morris also mentioned the city’s Plaza Jam concert for July — with Craig Woolard and the Embers rocking out at Cole Plaza — was moved to Wednesday.
“It should be a fun, exciting two days with great, free entertainment for the whole county,” he said.
County Manager Bryan Land said he was “looking forward to a spectacular event.”
“From what I have seen on the pre-planning, it will definitely be one of the best shows in the Carolinas,” he said. “Dan (Lovenheim), Frank and their team really stepped up to the plate to begin a new tradition in Richmond County.”
Kenneth Robinette, chairman of the Richmond County Board of Commissioners, was equally enthusiastic.
“This a huge deal for Richmond County, bringing the whole county together for one of the biggest fireworks shows in the state,” he said, giving thanks to Bloom and Lovenheim at the Speedway, the city, county and other sponsors for “stepping up.”
“Hopefully this will bring other people from other areas, as well,” he said.
Gates will open at 3 p.m. and the music will begin at 4. Admission and parking are both free.
More information will be released at www.therocknc.com “very soon,” Bloom said.
