Apex celebrates freedom and promotes unity in the Fourth of July celebrations

APEX, NC (WNCN) – The city of Apex began its Fourth of July celebrations early Monday morning.

Downtown celebrations included a parade of bikes, inflatable boats, food and face painting.

Emilie Nelson tells CBS 17 that she brought her daughter Hazel to the event to teach her about the holiday and its importance.

“I think it’s just important for them to have some culture out there and just see what’s at stake,” Nelson said.

While there was much fun, two very clear messages were conveyed during today’s celebration: to educate the next generation about our freedoms and the importance of unity in a time of so much division.

“Everyone is looking for the country and also our city dwellers to come together,” said Apex Mayor Jacques Gilbert, who delivered a speech Monday morning that focused on unity.

The city also held its first-ever fireworks display in Hunter Street Park last night.