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A Hot, But Festive Fourth of July in Moore County

Moore County residents and visitors to the area experienced hotter weather than usual for this year's Fourth of July holiday, but the heat didn't deter local celebrations held in the area.

Moore County had a day chock-full of festivities Wednesday, as thousands came out to celebrate the Fourth of July.

The day began with the the second annual Patriot 5k at Pinecrest High School. The races benefited Operation One Voice and the Pinecrest cross country teams.

The celebration at Pinebluff Lake Park featured a greased watermelon race, patriotic hat contest, pie-eating contest, along with swimming and lots of food. Profits went to a fundraiser focusing on fixing up the lake amenities.

In downtown Pinehurst, residents were treated first to a pet parade, followed by a traditional parade at 10 a.m. Parade entries included the Shriners, Pipe & Drums, American Legion, Antique Autos, pets, VFW, local dignitaries, military demonstration and more.

The quintessential Independence Day parade belonged to the streets of Carthage, that boasted a traditional parade of floats, cars, color guard and music down Monroe Street in Carthage.

Pinehurst and Aberdeen hosted huge celebrations later in the day, both capped off by fireworks displays

The Pinehurst celebration at the Fair Barn featured the Craig Wollard Band, followed by the sky show over the one-mile track.

Aberdeen hosted its 48th annual “America’s Birthday’ celebration that featured face-painting, beanbag tosses and other fun activities, with live music from the Sand Band. The day ended with a bang, with the annual fireworks display over Aberdeen Lake