Grab the beach chairs and fire up your appetite, it is Fourth of July on the OBX, and we are bringing the boom. Think fresh seafood, freedom fries, cold drinks, and front-row views of the best fireworks on the coast. Whether you’re headed to a backyard boil in Manteo or chasing live music in Duck, this is your guide to celebrating Independence Day the Outer Banks way.
Where to Celebrate Independence Day on the OBX
Ready to watch the sky light up, and enjoy all the other festivities the Outer Banks has to offer? Here’s where the 4th of July feels extra special:
- Duck: Fireworks and live music at Duck Town Park, plus the beloved Independence Day parade earlier in the day.
- Kill Devil Hills: Fireworks at Avalon Pier (Milepost 7), best viewed from the surrounding beaches. Bring a chair or blanket and arrive early; parking is free but limited.
- Nags Head: Fireworks at Nags Head Pier (Milepost 11.5) start at 9:25 p.m. Use public beach accesses and designated crosswalks, parking is limited and strictly enforced.
- Manteo: Kick off the afternoon with a bike parade and an apple pie contest with cash prizes. Grab dinner from local food trucks, then catch The Deloreans playing 80s hits from 5:30–9 p.m. Fireworks over the waterfront start at dusk.
- Hatteras: Don’t miss the 11th Annual Golf Cart Parade, where decorated carts roll through town in red, white, and blue. Fun for all ages and free to join or watch.
Where to Eat on the OBX This 4th
Skip the cooking and let the local pros handle it. Whether you’re craving seafood, burgers, or something sweet before the show, plenty of Outer Banks restaurants are open and serving holiday favorites.
The 4th of July Classics
There’s just something about a burger, a hot dog, and a basket of fries that feels like the 4th. From beachside grills to roadside favorites, these Outer Banks spots are serving up the nostalgic eats that scream summer.
Holiday Must-Haves:
- Grilled burgers piled high with all the fixings
- Hot dogs smothered in chili, cheese, or slaw
- Crispy crinkle-cut fries and onion rings
- Fried shrimp baskets and seafood po’ boys
- Ice-cold lemonade, sweet tea, and milkshakes
- BBQ sandwiches dripping with Carolina sauce
- Fresh-cut watermelon slices
Grab and Go
American Pie Pizza & Ice Cream
Pizza, burgers, and hand-dipped ice cream, what more could you want on a summer night? American Pie is a longtime OBX favorite known for its quick service, laid-back vibe, and seriously satisfying comfort food. Whether you’re feeding the whole crew or just grabbing something for yourself, their menu is packed with easy, crowd-pleasing options.
Even better? It’s right across the street from the beach, making it one of the most convenient spots to stop before the fireworks. Grab a freshly made pizza, a juicy burger, or a thick milkshake, and head straight to the sand with your feast in hand. For a casual 4th of July night done right, American Pie delivers
Snow Bird Burgers & Cones
A true Outer Banks gem, Snow Bird is your go-to for no-fuss takeout, old-school charm, and the kind of beach food that just hits different. Their menu is stacked with all the essentials: burgers, fried seafood baskets, hot dogs, and sandwiches, plus plenty of frozen treats to cool you down.
It’s fast, friendly, and perfect for a pre-fireworks pit stop or a post-beach refuel. Order at the window, grab a picnic table, or take it to-go and head straight to the sand. If you’re in Nags Head for the 4th, Snow Bird makes it easy to eat well without missing a minute of the fun.
All-American Eats
Capt’n Franks
A local legend since 1975, Captain Frank’s is the go-to spot for hot dogs on the OBX. From chili cheese dogs to crinkle-cut fries and classic American sides, it’s laid-back, fast, and exactly what you want after a beach day. Family-friendly, dog-friendly, and 100% 4th of July approved.
Expect picnic tables under the shade, a fun and quirky vibe, and a menu packed with everything from classic footlongs to creative combos like bacon-wrapped or jalapeño-topped dogs. And yes, they’ve got cold drinks, local beers, and all the fixings to make it a true holiday stop.
Art’s Place
If you know, you know, Art’s Place is a beloved local joint slinging some of the best burgers on the beach. This funky little spot has serious character, with rooftop seating that gives you ocean views while you chow down on juicy patties stacked high with all the good stuff.
The vibe is chill and casual, with live music often playing and locals mixing with visitors at the bar. Expect hand-pattied burgers cooked to order, crispy onion rings, loaded tots, and a cold beer to wash it all down.
A Drink With a View
Swells’a Brewing Beer Company
With a laid-back surf vibe and one of the coolest outdoor spaces on the beach, Swells’a is a top-tier spot to kick back with a drink. Their craft beer lineup rotates often and features everything from crisp blondes to juicy IPAs, all brewed on-site
Grab a pint, snag a spot on the lawn or upper deck, and enjoy the breeze. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and just a few blocks from the beach, making it an ideal stop before the fireworks.
Mulligan’s Grille in Historic Cottage Row
Mulligan’s is an OBX staple known for fresh seafood, strong drinks, and one of the best rooftop views around. Their upstairs deck bar overlooks the ocean, making it a prime spot to sip a cocktail or local brew while you catch that golden-hour glow.
Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour or hanging out ‘til the fireworks fly, Mulligan’s has the coastal charm, chill crowd, and perfect beach bar energy for your 4th of July weekend lineup.
Make It a Whole Weekend
With the 4th of July often bringing a full weekend of celebration, you’ll have plenty of time to soak it all in, beach days, fireworks nights, and everything delicious in between. From seafood feasts in Manteo to burgers in Kitty Hawk and rooftop drinks in Nags Head, there’s something tasty around every corner.
Across the Outer Banks, you can usually find parades, live music, and fireworks shows lighting up the night sky. No matter how you celebrate, explore the best of the OBX by town, dish, or experience, and make your holiday weekend one to remember.
