July 2

Extreme Heat Prompts Changes to Cary’s Independence Day Celebration at Koka Booth Amphitheatre

Cary, N.C. – Due to forecasted heat index values exceeding 100 degrees, Cary has modified its Independence Day Celebration at Koka Booth Amphitheatre to prioritize the health and safety of attendees, performers, and staff. To reduce prolonged exposure to the extreme heat, the venue will now open at 6 p.m., and the scheduled performances and family activities have been condensed/canceled as follows:

  • All previously scheduled food trucks will still be on-site.
  • Stage programming will now include Scouts of America presenting the colors, NC Poet Laureate Jaki Shelton Green sharing a poem titled, “An Ode to NC 250", and actor Mike Wiley and musician Dawn Landes performing a program called “Well, I Declare: America at 250.”
  • Fireworks promptly at 9:25 p.m.
  • After the party with a DJ and a special drawing that includes many great prizes, like tickets to the upcoming sold-out performance of Ella Langley and an officially autographed hockey stick from the Stanley Cup champions, the Carolina Hurricanes.

Regarding the cancellation of its performance, the North Carolina Symphony shared the following statement:
"The North Carolina Symphony is sorry that we will be unable to perform at the Cary Presents Independence Day Celebration at Koka Booth Amphitheatre on Saturday, July 4, due to the forecast of record-breaking heat. This marks the first time we have been unable to participate in this cherished community tradition because of extreme heat. We were looking forward to celebrating with our Koka Booth Amphitheatre audience and are grateful to our patrons and partners with the Town of Cary for their understanding and support."

To accommodate the new schedule, street closures will start at 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to stay hydrated, bring a reusable water bottle, and dress in light clothing. Misting stations will be located throughout the venue.

For day of updates, text CARYJULY4 to 888777. Additional event updates can be found at boothamphitheatre.com.

Primary Contact
If you have specific questions about Cary services, visit carync.gov/311, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-400 outside Town limits, or email 311@carync.gov .