News Release

National Park Service Reminds Visitors that Use and Possession of Fireworks are Illegal on Cape Hatteras National Seashore Beaches

Organizers of two fireworks shows have received permits to celebrate Independence Day at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

NPS

News Release Date: June 30, 2026

Contact: Cape Hatteras Public Affairs

MANTEO, N.C. — Cape Hatteras National Seashore reminds visitors and adjacent homeowners that it is illegal to detonate fireworks, or have fireworks in your possession, on all Seashore beaches, including the beaches on Ocracoke Island and all the beaches in Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon, Buxton, Frisco and Hatteras Village.

In addition to fireworks being illegal and a significant fire risk to local communities, the personal use of fireworks can be a considerable nuisance to humans, pets and wildlife.

Seashore law enforcement rangers will be patrolling the beaches throughout the Fourth of July holiday week.

The Seashore encourages visitors to travel to Hatteras and Ocracoke islands to view the only two permitted fireworks shows within the Seashore.

Permitted Fireworks Shows

• July 2 at 9:15 p.m. at the south end of Ocracoke Island

• July 4 at 9 p.m. at the Avon Fishing Pier

The Seashore wishes its visitors a happy and safe Fourth of July holiday celebrating our nation’s 250^th anniversary. Learn more about the history of Independence Day at www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalmall4th/history-of-independence-day.htm.