Union County’s Commemoration of America’s 250th Anniversary
Union County is proud to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, a defining moment in our nation’s history. This milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on our country’s founding principles and honor the progress and resilience of our community.
America 250: Country Under the Stars is a free, family-friendly concert on Saturday, July 25, at the Simpson Events Center. Hosted by Union County Parks and Recreation, this event brings neighbors together for an evening of live country music and summertime fun. The concert will feature performances by country artists Palmer Anthony and Darren Deese.
What items are permitted?
Guests are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, and outside food or non-alcoholic beverages to make their evening comfortable. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for sale at the event.
What items are not allowed?
Guests may not bring coolers, alcoholic beverages, drones or pets to the event. Only service animals are permitted. Tailgating and open flames are prohibited. No smoking or vaping is permitted on the premises. No camping or overnight stays are permitted on the premises.
Will there be fireworks?
Fireworks will occur at approximately 9 p.m. after the concert, weather permitting.
What types of activities are available during the event?
Attendees can enjoy a variety of free activities for all ages, including inflatables, face painting, axe throwing, and a fairy hair station. Attendees can purchase food and alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages from a variety of vendors. The concert will take place from approximately 6-9 p.m., with fireworks to follow, weather permitting.
Do we need tickets to enter?
Tickets are not required for this free event. We recommend that everyone arrive early for parking.
How much does it cost? What kind of payments are accepted?
Admission, parking, and activities are all free - although parking capacity and supplies for some activities will be in high demand. Food and beverages will be for sale. The type of payment accepted will vary by the vendor, so bring both cards and cash.
How will transportation work?
Free parking will be available at the venue, but we encourage attendees to carpool or rideshare. The parking lots will open at 5 p.m., approximately one hour before the music begins. Please follow all posted signs and directions from event volunteers. A designated area will be available for rideshare drop-off and pickup. If the parking lots reach capacity, signs will be posted to indicate that no more cars will be allowed into the venue.
Related News
How to Safely Dispose of Fireworks
Post Date:06/25/2026 12:15 PM
As summer celebrations light up the sky for America's 250th Anniversary, the Union County Fire Marshal's Office is reminding the community that firework safety doesn’t end after the last fireworks are set off. Properly discarding fireworks and sparklers, whether used or unused, is a critical step in preventing fires, injuries and environmental damage. Many firework-related accidents could happen after shows are over, when people assume the danger has passed. It is important to remember that the only legal fireworks in North Carolina are the ones that are purchased in North Carolina.
"We want everyone in Union County to enjoy the festivities, a safe celebration is a memorable one. Fireworks are not toys, children ages 5 to 9 are more than twice as likely as people in other age groups to be injured by fireworks, leave lighting and handling of fireworks to responsible adults," said Fire Marshal Jon Williams.
Experts recommend soaking all used fireworks in a bucket of water for several hours, preferably overnight, before disposal. This helps to ensure that any remaining embers are fully extinguished. Once soaked, the fireworks should be wrapped in plastic and placed in a noncombustible trash container. Unused or damaged fireworks should not be ignited; instead, they should be soaked and discarded safely, or taken to a local hazardous waste facility if available.
Remember not to burn fireworks in fire pits or leave any debris on the ground, as it can pose risks to children, pets and/or wildlife. As Union County prepares to celebrate America 250, we urge residents to take a few extra minutes to clean up responsibly so that celebrations can end safely.
Watch this brief video for more safety tips on celebrating safely:
