Fireworks Light Up the Night Skies
on a Sarasota Fourth of July!

Suncoast and Sarasota Events
July 4, 2024

There's nothing like a Sarasota Fourth of July with a variety of ways in which to celebrate. They're all to be found here!

There's everything from parades to food to festivals and, of course, fireworks, usually spread out over a few day period at various locations.

This page not only covers the immediate Sarasota Independence Day events but also the greater Sun Coast area spreading from Palmetto at the north all the way to North Port, Englewood and Punta Gorda at the south end.

And we also cover Fourth of July Events on Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Nokomis Beach and Casey Key as well as Venice and everywhere in between if something should pop up.

So surely there's something happening in your neck of the woods for the Fourth of July! And if there is, you can find it here.

Check it all out.

And have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

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We make every effort to publish accurate information however events, dates, times and places are all subject to change without notice due to organizers, weather, misinformation, mistakes and circumstances beyond control.

A Sarasota Fourth of July Weekend

June 29, 2024: Punta Gorda: It's Freedom-Fest & Fireworks 2024. This festival is a celebration of the United States with nonstop entertainment for the entire family. This year’s event features Water-Mania, a group of 12 giant waterslides which will be located in Laishley Park. There will be slides of all types and sizes for all ages. In addition to the Water-Mania water slides, there will be a large Kid’s Fun Zone with plenty to keep the young ones excited throughout the day and evening. There will also be plenty of fun festival food, cold beer, and beverages with live music throughout the day. Live entertainment will feature 2 national recording acts: The Countywide Band from Kentucky bring their high energy show to Laishley Park to entertain the crowd right before the fireworks! Nashville Recording Artist Jason Brownie & the Highway 17 Band will give a special performance right after the fireworks with their brand of hard drivin’ country music. These are 2 bands you don’t want to miss! Spectacular fireworks display in the event’s history scheduled to kick off at 9:00pm lighting up the sky over the Peace River. For the first time the fireworks will be launched from twin barges located in front of Laishley Park! Gates open at Noon for Freedom Fest 2024 on Saturday, June 29. Admission is $5 per person with proceeds helping to offset the expense of the fireworks, which are entirely funded by donations and sponsorships. Wristbands for unlimited use of the waterslides during the event will be available for purchase for only $10. 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Laishley Park, 150 Laishley Ct, Punta Gorda, FL. Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 3, 2024: Sarasota: Nathan Benderson Park’s annual July 3 tradition, NBP Fireworks On The Lake returns. Enjoy live music, fun and games, family fun, and a stunning fireworks display around 9 p.m.. Festive food and drinks available for purchase. Gates open at 5 p.m., music starts at 5:30 p.m.  Prices per carload depend on parking location $25 - $55. New VIP Experience adults $100, kids 12 & under $60.  Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota FL. Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: North Port: It's their July 4th Firecracker 5K Run, 1 Mile Fun Walk,  5K Run and Virtual 5K Run with Awards for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in age groups of 5yr. increments. Awards for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in age groups of 5yr. increments Awards: Overall, Masters, Grand Masters, Senior Grand Masters, & Veterans.12-under to 80-above. The 1 mile fun walk is around the Track- Not chip timed just for fun. Everyone will receive a finishers award. Registration fee/deadline/day of. Check in for runners begins at 6:15 a.m. Takes place at North Port High School. 6400 W Price Blvd., North Port, FL.

More Sun Coast Area & Sarasota
Fourth of July Events

July 4, 2024: Longboat Key: The Annual Freedom Fest on Longboat Key takes place at Bicentennial Park with a Parade, Food, Games. Celebration begins at 9 a.m. with a parade, then into the park with games and crafts for the kids, a butterfly release, waffles with strawberries and whipped cream, ponies, the famous “Hot Diggity Dog” contest sponsored by the Longboat Key Rotary Club–Prizes awarded for most patriotic, most creative dog costume, and for best owner and dog combination. Kids are welcome to decorate their bikes, wagons, and themselves and march in the parade. Call for additional information. 941-383-2466. Bicentennial Park, next to Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, FL. Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: Celebrate Independence Day at Snook Haven’s 4th of July Celebration & Kid Fest, a FREE, family-friendly event from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Live musical entertainment featuring local band, Old Glory, will take place from 1 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. They'll be servin' up sizzlin' ribs, hot dogs, hamburgers and sausages, right off the grill. Plus, enjoy fresh grilled corn, juicy watermelon slices and homemade Strawberry Funnel Cake. Guests will also enjoy all sorts of activities for the kiddos (and the kiddos at heart!). It’ll be a day full of great music, delicious food and refreshing brews in a fantastic “Old Florida” setting. Kayak and canoe rentals will be half-off so you can paddle the “wild & scenic” Myakka River. Keep your eyes peeled - you might catch sight of a gator or two. The 4th of July Kayak Festival and live entertainment are weather-permitting. Snook Haven, 5000 East Venice Avenue, Venice, FL.  Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: Anna Maria Island: The Anna Maria Island Privateers hold their Annual 4th of July Parade. One of the largest Water Fight Parades, it will run from Coquina Beach through Holmes Beach and end at the City Pier Park in Anna Maria. The Privateers will lead a Parade of Islanders, friends of the Island, and lovers of this country to celebrate life and freedom on our country's birthday. Enjoy one of the largest parades you'll ever be a part of. The 2018 Parade was attended by an estimated 25,000 Parade Watchers along the 7 mile parade route, 95 Parade Entries and over 800 participants. Staging for parade participants will begin at 8 a.m. at the Coquina Beach North Boat Ramp. Parade steps off at 10 a.m. sharp. Coquina Beach, Anna Maria Island, FL. More info: liaison@amiprivateers.org or Call (941) 896-0797. (Please note: Please know ahead this parade involves water. No water balloons please. Water balloons are not allowed because they can cause harm to parade participants and wildlife.) Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: Venice: Join the Knights of Columbus for their 4th of July Patriotic Ceremony and BBQ Picnic. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., Picnic starts at noon. BBQ lunch featuring hamburgers, hot dogs, bratwurst, beans, potato salad, coleslaw, corn on the cob, ice cream and more! Beer & Wine available. $15. Register by credit card at at: epiphanyknights.org or by check at 941-321-0415. Knights of Columbus #7052, 512 Substation Road, Venice, FL .

More Sun Coast Area Fourth of July Events

July 4, 2024: Punta Gorda: The quaint waterside Fisherman's Village is hosting an  Independence Day Celebration. The festivities begin with live music on the  Beach featuring From the Edge Band taking the main stage on the Dry Beach with their unique blend of country, rock and dance music 5-9 pm. Musician Mark Gorka, 5-9 pm in Center Court. Gigantic Fireworks Display begins at 9 pm. Best viewing area is from the Dry Beach, west side of property. Free admission. Noon - 9 p.m. Fishermen's Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL. (Fishermen’s Village Waterfront Mall, Resort and Marina is located off Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda. From I-75, take exit 164, turn left and proceed 3 miles to Fishermen’s Village. Call (941) 639-8721 for more information or visit on line at www.fishville.com) Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: Bradenton: Check out Bradenton Alive’s Independence Day Celebration which kicks off at 3 p.m. with live music, food vendors, merchants and a Jeep meet along the Bradenton Riverwalk. Live music performances by Emmit Stevens, Jr., (country) and 22N (rock and pop) will be staged at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion. Downtown Bradenton, FL.

July 4, 2024: Bradenton: It's Red, White, and BOOM! at The Bishop! Grab a seat or bring your blanket to their Riverside Plaza for a front-row view of the fireworks over the Manatee River. Doors Open at 7pm (6pm for VIP Ticket holders): Arrive early and grab your perfect spot on the Riverside Plaza with your blankets or chairs. Festive Food Trucks: Savor a variety of delicious treats from our on-site food trucks to fuel your fun. Refreshing Drinks: Quench your thirst with our selection of beers, wines, and soft drinks available for purchase at the bar. VIP Ticket – $35 per guest. General Admission $25. Children (4-10) $20. No rain date, no refunds.  No coolers. No outside foods or beverages. No fireworks or sparklers. 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St. West, Bradenton, FL

July 4, 2024: Sarasota:  Enjoy an All American Cookout and Independence Day Celebration on the grounds of Selby Gardens. Celebrate the 4th of July at Selby's bay front sanctuary. Savor All-American favorites (available for purchase) from the Michael’s on East Grill, Uncle Dave’s Popcorn, The Purple Belle Ice Cream Truck, and Kona Ice. Enjoy family-friendly activities and games on the Great Lawn, and then take in the spectacular fireworks display over Sarasota Bay. Various General Admission Ticket Pricing options and packages. No coolers. Blankets and chairs welcome. 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Selby Gardens, 900 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL. 941-366-5731. Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

Other Sun Coast Area & Sarasota
Fourth of July Events

July 4, 2024: Port Charlotte: Although this year is the Freedom Swim's 33rd anniversary, it actually will be the 34th time it is taking place. Swimming takes place across the 1.5 mile river from Charlotte Harbor (north side of the river), not Port Charlotte, to Punta Gorda. The starting point is the west side of bridge. Swimmers use various flotation devices from rafts to swim noodles. The swim's starting point  is Live Oak Point, northwest side of the north end of the northbound U.S. 41 bridge. with a 1:30 p.m. starting time. Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda, FL.

July 4, 2024: Venice: The Venice area fireworks are fired from the south Venice Jetty in the Venice Beach area. Although Humphris Park at the South Jetty and Jetty Jacks Refreshment Deck will be closed for safety July 4, the fireworks display on Independence Day may be viewed on area beaches from Caspersen to Nokomis, as well as from other locations around Venice. Please arrive early to secure your spot. Boats should be at anchor by 8:15 p.m. July 4; the Venice Inlet will be closed to boat traffic at 8:30 p.m. until about 45 minutes after the display’s grand finale. In the case of inclement weather, the fireworks show may be delayed. With so many people, especially small children, individuals using fireworks can be extremely dangerous. The fireworks will be set off shortly after 9 p.m. and last about 30 minutes. . Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: Siesta Key: The  Annual Community 4th of July Fireworks Display over the number 1 beach in the nation, Siesta Key, are blasted off just north of the volleyball courts, so viewing is good from anywhere south and along Crescent Beach (south of Siesta Public Beach), out on the Gulf, or from the Intracoastal waterway. Beach spectators are strongly advised to not bring their own fireworks. With so many people, especially small children, individuals using fireworks can be extremely dangerous. Good weather brings estimates of 20,000 to 30,000 to the fireworks on Siesta Key. Fireworks at around 9 p.m. More info: (941) 349-3800. Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.

Other Sun Coast Area & Sarasota
Fourth of July Events

July 4, 2024: Palmetto: The City of Palmetto 13th annual 4th Fest is at a NEW Venue This Year, beautiful Palmetto Riverside Park. Join in for a spectacular celebration beginning at 5 PM with live music featuring One Night Rodeo, Scarlet Drive Band, and The Beatdown Band. Plus food trucks vendors, and a Beer & Beverage Garden hosted by DeSoto Historical Society. This year, have fun with the whole family with a Book Bus, face painting, bubbles galore, and a Kids Zone. Live music and activities kick off at 5 p.m. then the dazzling fireworks show around 9pm off the Green Bridge Pier. No coolers, tents or outside alcohol. Palmetto Riverside Park, 801 Riverside Drive, Palmetto, FL. Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: North Port: The City of North Port’s annual Freedom Festival, at CoolToday Park, will be a family-friendly event and will include fun activities, great vendors, plenty of food options, and of course, fireworks at 9 p.m. Available on the front event lawn of the stadium will be a Kids Fun Zone which will include a variety of free activities, vendors, lawn games, bounce house  and much more!  Seating will be available both inside the stadium or outside on the Event Lawn. If watching the Fireworks Show from the Event Lawn, the public is welcome to bring blankets or chairs to enjoy the show. No personal fireworks, sparklers, animals, or stickers will be permitted. Those who prefer to enjoy the show from home will be able to stream it on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/NorthPortParksAndRec  5 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. CoolToday Park, 18800 W Villages Parkway, Venice, FL.Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024:   Bradenton/Palmetto: Honor America's birthday with fireworks over the Manatee River. Fireworks are scheduled to begin around 9:00 p.m. with the  pyrotechnics show lasting approximately 25 minutes launching from the Green Bridge Fishing Pier. Best of all, you can enjoy the show from both the Palmetto and Bradenton sides of the river. People usually mass along both sides of the Manatee River Riverwalk waterfront in downtown Bradenton and Palmetto.  Sarasota Fourth of July Events on Escape-to-Sarasota.com

July 4, 2024: Englewood: The Light up Lemon Bay Fireworks Display will launch from Middle Beach (Blind Pass Beach) over Lemon Bay on Manasota Key. Viewing is free from anywhere along the Lemon Bay Intracoastal Waterway, from the Tom Adams Bridge to Englewood Isles and along Manasota Key. Weather permitting, fireworks shoot off at 9:05p.m.

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