Traditional Fare Marks Celebrations in Level Cross, North Carolina

It's that time of year again! Every year, Americans celebrate July 4 and our independence with hot dogs, apple pies, community events, parades, and (of course!) FIREWORKS!

We have been privileged to live in the Triad region of North Carolina for many years. Some of the state's largest fireworks displays and events occur nearby. Greensboro's display gets bigger and grander every year. Yet we prefer our small town's events.

Level Cross, NC, is an unassuming little town about 12 miles south of Greensboro on US Highway 220. It's a one stoplight, blink if you miss it sort of place. Yet just off the main road, there's a lot here. Our little town has lots of industry, several churches, a couple of convenience stores, and shoreline on the newly built Randleman Lake. We are proud of Richard Petty, who lives here and has his shop on Branson Mill Road. We also have a top-rated volunteer fire department. Our VFD doesn't just do a lot of fire and medical calls - they do a lot for the community as well!

Fourth of July is a BIG day in Level Cross! Every year, we have a huge celebration at the Ball Field. Visitors will want to take Highway 220 to the Level Cross exit and turn towards town. When you get to the traffic light, go straight. You'll see the ball field immediately past the intersection, on your right.

Last year's Fun 4th celebration included inflatable rides for the kids, a dunking booth, games, and lots of food! The firemen did demonstrations, and sprayed everyone down (gently) with water to cool off! The fire department posted some pictures on their website.

This year's Fun 4th starts at 3:30pm and goes until the fireworks are over. The Fire Department and Level Cross Community Center are sponsoring the events, which are free. Donations are being requested to support the all-volunteer Fire Department and the Community Center.

Activities will include the "Dunkin Booth", a Bungee Run AND a Basket ball Bungee Run, Horse shoes, Tug-a-war rope and a Spiderman Moon walk. This is a family event with a family atmosphere... rowdy people are asked to move on.

One year, a local pastor put himself in the "Dunkin Booth", which was great fun for lots of the area children. Richard Petty is rumored to show up at these events if he's free.

The Fire Department always puts on an excellent fireworks show at the end. This is no hick town fireworks display - Level Cross goes all-out to celebrate the 4th! In fact, many people have commented that the fireworks are far better than Greensboro (a very large city nearby) has!

All in all, Fun 4th is ... fun! Whether you're from around these parts or just passing through, you'll be welcome here in Level Cross for the festivities!