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July 4, 2026
This July 4th marks the nation’s 250th anniversary! Chapel Hill is celebrating with a new type of show that reimagines our long-standing community gathering.
Technology meets creativity in this year’s drone show at Chapel Hill High School, presented by Skyworx. At 9:20pm, a collection of 300 synchronized drones will lift off and arrange themselves into shapes and images, using light and color to paint designs across the Chapel Hill sky.
Parking & Shuttles
No parking at Chapel Hill High School, Smith Middle School, or Seawell Elementary School.
ADA-accessible parking: Chapel Hill High School (first come, first serve starting at 6pm)
Parking options (all free):
- Opening at 6pm: Rosemary Parking Deck and UNC’s RR Lot
- Opening at 7:30pm: Eubanks Park & Ride Lot
Parking is first come, first serve until full capacity. We’ll have frequent shuttles running between these lots and the event at Chapel Hill High School.
Shuttle times:
- Before the show: 6pm-8:45pm
- After the show: 9:35pm-10:05pm
No shuttles during the show. We encourage you to park early so there’s time to hop on the shuttle and pick a viewing spot before the show starts. Chapel Hill Transit will not operate regular service in observance of the July 4 holiday. Only the shuttle service is available.
What to Bring
Encouraged: Plenty of water, picnic supplies, coolers, blankets, and chairs. Seating is not provided, so you must bring your own.
Not allowed: Tents, tailgates, pets, alcohol, glass, combustibles, flammables, fireworks, sparklers, weapons, and smoking