Heat eases off enough for residents to enjoy the show

If the annual Independence Day fireworks show and festival Wednesday in Rocky Mount didn't set attendance records, it wasn't because of the weather. At 7 p.m., the temperature was 82 degrees, and by 9 p.m., it was a balmy 78 degrees.

On an evening when the numerous first responders working the event could have been busy treating people for heat-related illnesses, Battalion Chief Travis Avent of the Rocky Mount Fire Department said he was grateful for the relatively cool temperatures.

"We've been really fortunate. It's been hot lately," Avent said.

James Wester, Anya Lawrence and their infant son, Jamir, all of Rocky Mount, were taking it easy on the football field enjoying the live music.

Wester and Lawrence, both veteran participants in the annual event, said their favorite part of the festival was the music. Wester also gave of a nod to the food vendor trucks. Lawrence said she was also a fan of the children's activities.

"It's an opportunity to connect with people in the community," said Wester.

The city's annual Fourth of July gathering and fireworks show was held at the Rocky Mount Sports Complex and was open free of charge.

The live music was performed by the band Rhythm Express, and the family-friendly event included inflatables and amusement rides for children, a video game truck, face painting, balloon twisting, bubble creation stations and horse carriage rides on Barnum Road as well as food trucks.