Join us July 4th in River Park, Hillsborough, for a celebration of community, history, and culture. Featuring live music, demos, craft and food vendors, kids’ activities, and more! Presented by the Town of Hillsborough in partnership with Orange County.

Schedule of Events:

10am -1pm

1:00 p.m.
Apple Chill Cloggers with the Blue Star Travelers
Since their founding in1975, this spirited folk dance troupe has performed at well over 600 events in more than one-third of the United States and in 14 foreign countries. The Apple Chill Cloggers’ style includes patterns and steps from clogging, square dance, and Scottish traditions, as well as creative additions from the members. Their trademarks are energetic high kicks, brightly colored authentic costumes, and a genuine love for Southern Appalachian Clogging.

1:45 p.m.
Blue Star Travelers
The Blue Star Travelers are a North Carolina string band whose members travel many miles to play traditional old-time music together. Members are: Charley Pennell on fiddle, mandolin, and other instruments of destruction; Alan Julich on banjo; Clare Steece Julich and Paula Jeannet on guitars; and George Noblit on bass.

2:15 p.m.
Clogging Workshop with the Apple Chill Cloggers and the Blue Star Travelers.

2:45 p.m.
“Well, I declare!” with Dawn Landes featuring Mike Wiley
Unique and thought-provoking, “Well, I declare!” is directed and spearheaded by acclaimed singer-songwriter Dawn Landes. Actor and playwright Mike Wiley delivers a compelling, live reading and exploration of the Declaration of Independence. Interwoven with Wiley’s narration are original songs and musical responses curated by Landes, tackling themes of democracy, freedom, and whether our nation is living up to its founding promises.

Originally presented by Pinecone (Piedmont Council of Traditional Music).

4:00 p.m.
Tan and Sober Gentlemen
Born and raised in North Carolina, the Tan and Sober Gentlemen began taking in the songs, stories, and tunes that make up their beloved state’s musical tradition before they could talk. The music of the Carolinas, (and Appalachia in general) stems from the marriage of the Irish fiddle and the African banjo, which first met in the American South before the Revolution. The Tan and Sober Gentlemen aim to bring these traditions full circle. They play Irish tunes, ballads, and pub songs right next to the Appalachian fiddle tunes of their youth, melding the two into what they call “Irish-American hillbilly music.” Meanwhile, they have earned a reputation as one of the South’s hardest-hitting live acts, playing at blazing tempos and putting every last bit of energy they possess into the show. The result is a raucous celebration of the Carolinas’ Irish heritage, with dancing and merriment galore.

4:45 p.m.
We the People Parade with the Second Line Stompers
Join us starting at 10am to make your very own handmade “Flag of the Future.” Work with local artists to make your flag showing what you wish for our country over the next 250 years. Kids are encouraged to dress as their favorite character from U.S. history. At 4:45 p.m., meet at the River Park ARTch for a short parade around River Park.

5:15 p.m.
Los Peligros Del Norte
This North Carolina–based norteño band is known for energetic performances that blend traditional Mexican musical styles with contemporary regional Mexican favorites. Led by accordionist and bandleader Andy Rios, the group features the driving accordion melodies, vocals, and danceable rhythms that define the norteño tradition. Los Peligros del Norte brings authentic regional Mexican music to diverse audiences while celebrating the rich musical heritage of northern Mexico

6:30 p.m.

Second Line Stompers

The Second Line Stompers is a five-piece jazz band based in the Triangle area that joyfully performs traditional New Orleans classics.The band is led by Gregg Gelb (clarinet and saxophone), and includes: Dave Richards (trumpet), Danny Grewen (trombone), George Knott (tuba), and Silas Seigler (drums).

7:30 p.m.
New Creation Gospel 
This celebrated gospel group from Hillsborough, North Carolina is known for its rich traditional quartet sound, powerful vocals, and heartfelt ministry. Comprised primarily of members of the Woods family, this nine-member ensemble was reunited through faith and officially formed as a group in 2009. Since then, New Creation has shared the stage with gospel greats including Shirley Caesar, Lee Williams, and Doc McKenzie. Their recordings include Help Is On the Way, Help Is On the Way Live, and the Christmas release Our Gift to You. Led by the Woods family’s commitment to faith, music, and service, New Creation continues to inspire audiences with a message of hope, spiritual growth, and transformation through song.

8:15 p.m. – Welcome and Recognition of Elected Officials

8:45 p.m.
Triangle Jazz Orchestra
Triangle Jazz Orchestra is a big band composed of enthusiastic musicians from across the Triangle, performing the great American music of the jazz masters of the Swing Era.

9:00 p.m.
Independence Day Laser Light Show by Solar Syndicate