Canton adds extra bang by hosting event on July 5

Colleen Casey, The Mountaineer, Waynesville, N.C.
·2 min read

Jul. 1—CANTON — Firework fun doesn't have to end on July 4. Here in Haywood, the town of Canton hosts a special event called the Fourth of July Plus One at Sorrells Park for an additional day of celebration.

"I'm excited the event is happening and once again bringing people together as Americans especially in these divisive times," Mayor Zeb Smathers said.

The town of Canton tries to set their event apart from the others by hosting its event on July 5, so as not to compete with the other shows going on in the area.

Lisa Stinnett, assistant manager and town clerk said several thousand people usually go to the event, which has been going on for the last ten years.

Stinnett said the event is free to the public, and it is sponsored by Champion Credit Union. "Dutch Cove sponsors the inflatables. There is no cost to the town other than personnel," she added.

Entertainment

July Fourth Plus One starts at 6 p.m. and the fireworks start at dusk. Available food includes free watermelon and options from six food trucks.

Parking will also be available adjacent to the park in the gravel lot.

"The most exciting thing this year is the opening of our splash pad at Sorrells Park," Smathers said.

The splash pad opening had previously been delayed because of a hold up on parts.

"It is important for me as mayor and our board to put smiles back on faces, especially the faces of children," he added.

Stinnett said the town's favorite part of the event is watching families enjoying the event and celebrating independence.

"The town of Canton is happy to have partners such as Champion Credit Union, Crawford Ray Funeral Home, Dutch Cove Baptist as well as the mayor and board that are happy to give the citizens and visitors alike an opportunity to celebrate our independence in a safe family atmosphere at no cost to them," Stinnett said.

The Kiwanis is putting on a Lucky Draw at Canton's July Fourth Plus One. Ticket holders have the opportunity to win a $1,000 cash prize. The Lucky Draw was launched to jump start the fundraising for an all abilities playground and repairs to the playground damaged by flooding.

"As we showed during the floods, people can come together when the times are tough and make our home a better place," Smathers said. "For me, America is not what we have been or what we are, but what we can be."