RALEIGH, N.C. — Wildfire observers want North Carolina residents to ditch their personal fireworks this year in favor of public Fourth of July displays.

(Find fireworks displays in your area.)

The state Division of Forest Resources said backyard fireworks trigger many wildfires around the holiday weekend that damage property and drain resources.

Wildfires have already burned nearly 70,000 acres this year – the highest total since 1986.

Crews are still battling a wildfire in eastern North Carolina that has consumed more than 41,000 acres. That fire has been burning for more than a month.

For those who don't plan to do their own fireworks, there are plenty of events happening in and around the Triangle.

Thousands of cyclists planned to line up in Cary Friday morning for the 16th annual 4th of July Firecracker Ride. They'll ride either a 50K (31 miles) or a 100K (62 miles).

At the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, food, families and fun will go together like red, white and blue. Gates open at 2:30, and admission is free. A fireworks display starts at 9:15 p.m.

Cary will also have its annual fireworks at Booth Amphitheater.

New this year, a touch of Hollywood is coming to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The movie "Bull Durham" is turning 20, and its star, Kevin Costner, will help celebrate. He and his band Modern West take the stage at 7:30 p.m.

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