Winfall, Hertford to host Fourth of July celebration July 6

If you’re not fireworked out by Saturday, July 6, Missing Mill Park will be the place to be.

The towns of Hertford and Winfall are hosting a joint Independence Day celebration that gets underway on both sides of the Perquimans River at 5 p.m. leading up to a fireworks show starting at 9 p.m.

Wetzel Pyrotechnics, which is based in Moyock, will be in charge of the fireworks show that owner Kevin Wetzel estimates will last 20-30 minutes.

“We do these shows in different places. We have as much variety in the show as possible,” he said. “In EC (Elizabeth City) we will do some stuff we did last year. They can expect fireworks shot over the water.

“In Hertford, the show we’ll be doing will include some willow effects, using colorful shells — a show that the folks should enjoy as much as the show last year,” he said.

By holding their Independence Day celebration on July 6, Hertford and Winfall officials are hoping area residents who might have enjoyed Fourth of July celebrations in Edenton and Elizabeth City will visit one of the Perquimans County towns for a third fireworks show.

Winfall Mayor Preston White said the town is contributing $10,000 toward the cost of this year’s fireworks show. The funding includes some donations and contributions made last year by business owners and individuals.

White said the fireworks will easily be visible from the lawn of Winfall’s Town Hall or near Missing Mill Park in Hertford. Park bathrooms will be available in Winfall and porta potties will be stationed in Hertford.

Folding chairs are welcome at both sites. Grubb Street will be closed between East Academy and West Academy streets in Hertford.

Doris Walton, Hertford assistant town manager, said Hertford hired DJ Cowboy to play music before the fireworks show starts. The town also scheduled four food trucks to be on hand.

“Food truck vendors are scheduled to set up near missing Missing Mill Park from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.,” she said. “For the kids, we will have will ring toss, sidewalk chalk drawing options and a portable splash pad in Missing Mill Park. The DJ will set up near picnic tables.”

Seeds of Success will provide lemonade and water while supplies last.

Motorists can take advantage of parking spaces in the town of Hertford’s administrative building parking lot and nearby public streets.