The 4th of July guarantees visitors and residents fun, festivities, and fireworks in and around Anna Maria Island. Sun in the fun doesn’t stop around this time of the year on the Island so be sure to bring your flip flops, swimsuit, and sunblock to enjoy a day filled with exciting activities.
Holidays are celebrated differently on the gulf coast of Florida, and no celebration is like another. Each town is unique in its own right so feel free to explore the entire area to find out which one you like best.
Independence Day Parade
For those starting their Independence day on the beautiful Anna Maria Island, your day will start will a beautiful sunrise that would be a shame to miss but if you do, don’t worry. The sunsets are just as majestic. You can grab a quick bite to eat before you catch the 2016 Independence Day Parade which starts at 10:00 AM and runs until 12:00 PM.
The parade will span across the entire Island, from Coquina Beach to City Pier at Anna Maria. The Parade ends early enough for you to catch another venue for the rest of the day. You can end your day by coming back to the island to watch fireworks on the beach. You will be sure to see the breathtaking show clearly because the buildings aren’t allowed to reach over three stories on Anna Maria Island. This means you will have practically a 360° view and a chance at an unforgettable Fourth of July night.
Fireworks Spectacular
On Anna Maria, enjoy the “Fireworks Extravaganza” after dark on July 4th. The fireworks are set off from the Sandbar, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria. Set up anywhere along the beaches of Anna Maria Island to reserve a good spot and enjoy the sunset beforehand. Any of the beaches accesses near our pet-friendly Anna Maria Island vacation rentals are close enough to enjoy the show. Another option is to enjoy the show while eating dinner at the Sandbar – you can call the Sandbar to check on the availability of reserved seating – live music will provide additional entertainment.
If you want to watch the fireworks from somewhere else, you can choose pretty much anywhere down this side of the coast to see a spectacular Sarasota style 4th of July. The Fireworks Spectacular over Sarasota Bay begins at night, usually around 9 PM, and viewing is free if you are anywhere downtown. If you can charter a boat for the day, the display is incredible from the bay. You can also catch a fireworks show on Siesta Key and in Venice, Florida if you want to venture a little further away from the Island.
Freedom Fest
Head down to Longboat Key in the morning and celebrate our freedom at the Bicentennial Park, 2730 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. Festivities are scheduled to happen between 9-11 am.
Maruader’s Baseball
You can’t get much more American than baseball and fireworks. If you want to have the full red, white, and blue experience, go to the Marauder’s Baseball game where they take on the Charlotte Stone Crabs on the 4th of July. You will find an incredible fireworks display happening after the game. Tickets range from $6 to $8 to $10. The field is located at 1611 9th Street West, Bradenton, Florida.
Liberty Day Regatta and Family Festival
Looking for something more family-friendly to entertain the kids? Head over to the Sarasota Sailing Squadron’s Liberty Day Regatta and Family Festival. There will be a water slide, an ice cream truck, a pig roast and live music followed by firework displays all around the bay. The food will be ready around 6:30 p.m. and you are encouraged to bring your favorite summer dessert potluck! Dinner wristbands are $7 a person for dinner and kids 12 and under are $5.00 each. The festivities begin at 1 p.m. and continue throughout the night. This event is located at 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, on City Island.
There’s nothing better than spending your 4th of July watching fireworks on a Florida coastline, so book now to reserve your Anna Maria Island vacation rental this year!
