Downtown Greensboro Inc. Announces 2026 Fun Fourth Festival, Presented by Allegacy Financial
Free July 3–4 celebration marks America's 250th Anniversary with live music, a Freedom Run, fireworks, and family festivities in the heart of downtown
GREENSBORO, N.C. — Downtown Greensboro Inc. (DGI) today announced the lineup for the 2026 Fun Fourth Festival, presented by Allegacy Financial. This year's free, family-friendly celebration carries special significance as the nation marks its 250th Anniversary, bringing two days of live music, food, local vendors, and entertainment to downtown Greensboro on Friday, July 3 and Saturday, July 4.
"Fun Fourth is one of downtown Greensboro's most beloved traditions, and this year it means even more as we celebrate America's 250th birthday together," said Rob Overman, Interim Executive Director of Downtown Greensboro Inc. "We can't wait to welcome families from across the Triad for a weekend of music, food, and fun in the heart of our city. Whether you're lacing up for the Freedom Run, dancing at the block party, or watching the fireworks with your kids, there's something here for everyone."
Friday, July 3 — Fun Fourth Block Party Concert
The weekend kicks off a day early with the Fun Fourth Block Party Concert, presented by T-Mobile Fiber, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. in Hamburger Square, next to Natty Greene's. This year's concert features Kids in America, a totally '80s tribute band, for an evening of live music, community celebration, and patriotic fun as the countdown to the Fourth begins.
To accommodate the festivities, Elm Street will be closed from Smyres Place to Washington Street, and McGee Street will be closed from Holliday Circle to the train tracks.
Saturday, July 4 — Freedom Run & Freedom Fest
Saturday morning starts with the Freedom Run, brought to participants by Ice Age Management. The 10K, 5K, and 1-mile Fun Run begin at 7:30 a.m. in LeBauer Park. Registration is open now at runsignup.com.
The celebration continues with Freedom Fest, presented by Allegacy Financial, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Freedom Fest will feature three stages with live music and karaoke, vendors, food trucks, a rock wall, princess meet-and-greets, mobile video game trucks, Stars & Stripes Hoopfest pickup basketball (1x1, 2x2, and 3x3 games), water slides, a carousel, a bounce house, and much more. Guests can also enjoy strolling performers and a fireworks finale to cap off the day.
New This Year: Clear Bag Policy
For the 2026 celebration, the City of Greensboro is instituting a clear bag policy within the footprint of the event. Attendees, participants, vendors, volunteers, and other persons entering the event will be permitted to carry only clear bags, purses, totes, backpacks, or similar containers made of transparent material. Diaper bags, medically necessary bags, and other accommodations required by applicable law may be permitted, subject to inspection by event security personnel or law enforcement officers.
The City reserves the right to require inspection of any bag or container and to prohibit items that present a safety, security, or operational concern.
Event Details & Resources
A downloadable event map and additional event details are available at downtowngreensboro.org/events/fun-fourth-festival.
About Downtown Greensboro Inc.
Downtown Greensboro Inc. is dedicated to the continued growth, vibrancy, and economic vitality of Greensboro's center city. Through events, advocacy, beautification, and partnerships, DGI works to make downtown a welcoming destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
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