CHARLOTTE, N.C. — One of the biggest Fourth of July celebrations of the year is now just days away.
The annual SkyShow at Truist Field draws thousands to Uptown for baseball, food, and fireworks. This year, the show will light up the night sky right after the Charlotte Knights take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp Thursday.
“We just moved here in September,” Toshmar Mitchell, a Charlottean, said. “So, we’re looking forward to it this week.”
The game begins at 6:35 p.m. on Thursday, July 4 with the fireworks show starting shortly after the game ends. For ticket information, click here.
Uptown Safety
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and its partners say safety during the event is a top priority.
In a joint press conference Monday addressing overall safety in Uptown, CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings said they’re ready for the crowd.
“We have a robust and well-thought-out plan for the celebration this year,” Jennings said.
Part of that plan addresses crime involving teenagers with a division of officers now dedicated specifically to youth violence.
The initiative comes after five people were hurt when police say a 19-year-old opened fire into a crowd near Romare Bearden Park on New Year’s Eve last year.
“We’re going to go to their homes," Jennings said. "These are the kids who caused problems during last year’s event and these are the kids who caused problems during New Year's Eve. We are visiting their guardians so they can clearly understand the consequences of their actions.”
Formed in 2024, the Juvenile Accountability and Diversion Empowerment team, or JADE, conducts juvenile investigations and monitors Charlotte’s most at-risk juvenile offenders.
JADE provides resources to these young people and their families to prevent recidivism and helps empower them to turn their lives around and become productive citizens, according to CMPD.
The work doesn’t stop there.
Across Uptown, Jennings said officers have been focused on reducing crime at the Charlotte Transportation Center, First Ward Park, Fourth Ward Park, and Romare Bearden Park, which each get a lot of visitors. This initiative is called Operation Targeted Response for Intervention and Outreach or TRIO.
“In 2024 this operation has led to more than 60 arrests at these locations,” Jennings said. “The combined efforts of these operations and others have led to an overall decrease in crime this year in the central division.”
They’re also working to support those experiencing homelessness and keep repeat offenders behind bars.
These efforts are good news, Mitchell said, ahead of Thursday’s celebrations.
“With the police and everybody getting involved and trying to make it safer, hopefully they’re able to achieve that so there aren’t any more incidents down here,” Mitchell said.
Top Spots to Watch the Fireworks
If you’re not attending the baseball game but still want to catch the SkyShow fireworks, there are several vantage points in Uptown that organizers recommend:
- Haymaker (225 S Poplar Street, Charlotte)
- This farm-to-table restaurant provides a chic and comfortable setting to enjoy the fireworks.
- Romare Bearden Park (300 S Church Street, Charlotte)
- Located adjacent to Truist Field, this park is a popular spot for families and groups. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy the fireworks from the open lawn.
- Merchant and Trade Rooftop (303 S Church Street, Charlotte)
- Offers views of the city and the fireworks, along with cocktails and bites.
- French Quarter & Brevard Court (136 Brevard Court, Charlotte)
- Cozy atmosphere with a range of eateries and pubs. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor patios and enjoy the show.
- Mellow Mushroom Pizza (255 W Martin Luther King Jr, Blvd, Charlotte)
- If you’re in the mood for pizza while watching the fireworks, Mellow Mushroom is the place to be. Its location provides a good view of the fireworks and a laid-back vibe.
- Ink and Ivy (222 S Church Street, Charlotte)
- This trendy spot offers a mix of dining and nightlife. Enjoy a meal or a drink on their outdoor patio while taking in the fireworks display.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Arrive Early: Whether you’re going to the baseball game or one of the nearby spots, arriving early ensures you get a good spot and avoid the rush.
- Bring Essentials: If you’re watching from a park or outdoor area, bring essentials like blankets, chairs, snacks, and plenty of water.
- Public Transport: Consider using public transportation like the Blue Line, bus stops, or scooters to avoid parking in Uptown Charlotte on such a busy night.
- Check Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared for any changes.
Contact Kayland Hagwood at khagwood@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.