ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The city of Asheville is inviting residents and visitors downtown Saturday for a full day of Independence Day festivities in the South Slope, capped by a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.
The celebration will feature live music, a local marketplace, food vendors, a classic car show, Ultimate Air Dogs dock diving and on-street beverage service, according to the city of Asheville.
Organizers are encouraging people to plan ahead, expect crowds and allow extra time for travel, as several South Slope streets will be closed to vehicles throughout the day.
Road closures begin at 7 a.m. and run through midnight:
- Coxe Avenue (Hilliard Avenue to Millard Avenue)
- Banks Avenue (Coxe Avenue to Church Street)
- Buxton Avenue (Coxe Avenue to Millard Avenue)
Additional closures will be in effect from 5 to 10:30 p.m.:
- Asheland Avenue (Hilliard Avenue to Southside Avenue)
City officials recommend parking outside the event area and walking in if possible.
Festivities are expected to draw large crowds to the South Slope neighborhood, which has become a popular hub for breweries, restaurants and public events in recent years.
The city says the goal is a family-friendly Fourth of July celebration that brings together live entertainment and a fireworks finale over downtown Asheville.