If you're looking for something fun and free to do to celebrate Independence Day, consider heading over to South Park for the town's celebration.

The gates to South Park, located at 900 S. Main Street, will open at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday July 3.

This family friendly event is sponsored by the town of Fuquay-Varina Parks and Recreation Department.

Admission and all events are free, Amanda Cline, Recreation Program Coordinator. The celebration has happened for more than 10 years.

The evening will kickoff with a welcome given by Fuquay-Varina's Mayor John Byrne. Music, rides, food and fireworks are all part of the fun.

The Legends of Beach Band will begin playing ‘Beach Music', the official music of North Carolina starting at 7 p.m.  Dancing to the tunes will last until 9 p.m.

All the rides are set up by Eastern Entertainment.  They are free to kids and parents alike and will be available until 9 p.m.

Visitors will be able to purchase snacks from several food vendors.  To tickle the palate, a variety of items including hot dogs, hamburgers, funnel cake, a blooming onion, shaved ice, ice cream, lemonade, water and soda will be on hand.

When the sky turns dark, Melrose Pyrotechnics will shoot off fireworks before an expected crowd of 10,000 spectators.

For further information check the website at www.fuquay-varina.org or call 919-552-1430.