Family time, picnics and Barbeques and of course Fireworks are part of the summer fun on the Florida Gulf Coast. Watching the lights reflecting on the Gulf, doubles the shows amazement. Here’s where to go to celebrate July 4, 2017. Plan ahead,as good weather brings big crowds by land and waterfront. If you plan to be on the intracoastal, marina, or Gulf, anchor early. Dinghy’s and paddleboards are a good way to get around once you have a home base.
Anna Maria Island:Privateers hold their annual 4th of July Parade from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m . Collect beads and candy from the pirates and their crew, and the rest of the paraders coming through. Starting at the Anna Maria City Pier, down Gulf drive to Coquina beach. All accessed by the free trolley. Followed by the Parade Party at the Ugly Grouper in Holmes Beach, where Scholarships are granted to area students. Plenty of fun and shenanigans, while making friends along the way.
The SandBar Restaurant, is hosting the 31st Island Celebration. Join them for fireworks at the wedding pavilion at dusk. They are hosting an extravaganza of seafood and holiday favorite, including roast beef, and lobster.To learn more click here. To purchase VIP packages contact Jamie Kissell, Special Events Director at (941) 778-8709 or jkissell@chilesgroup.com. Or, for more information call (941) 778-8705 or visit www.islanddining.com.
Bradenton: Over the river at Pier 22.All American Independence Day Pig Roast & Fireworks.98598. A single seating event starting at 6 p.m. and ending at 9 p.m. Served buffet style. While dining waterside you will enjoy a marvelous July 4th fireworks celebration. If you come later, vendors are along the parking area also selling food and Drink.
Longboat Key: is celebrating with the Freedom Fest. At 9 am at 501 Bay Isles Road, marks the beginning of the annual parade. Dress up in red, white and blue, (Pets included), bring your decorated Bikes and wagons, as you participate in this family event. Immediately following, at Bicentennial Park is family activities, food, drinks, and games for the kids, til 11 am. (next to the Town Hall). For more information call: 941-383-2466. Watch fireworks along the bay at Sarasota or head north to Anna Maria Island.
Sarasota: Selby Gardens is offering an All American Barbeque, catered by local favorite, Michael’s On East. Enjoy live music from SoulRCoaster with family activities and fireworks at the Bay front location from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Come early and enjoy the lush landscaping, flowers and waterfalls. Childrens play area and serene surroundings make for a peaceful day. Ticket purchase info to be announced or call 941.366.5731. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 900 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota FL.
Bayfront Park and Island Park: Fireworks on Sarasota Bay, by Marina Jack’s, an amazing display by land or boat. The Sarasota show starts at dusk or around 9:00 p.m.
Siesta Key: Fireworks over Siesta Key are launched from the north side of the volleyball courts. Can be viewed from Siesta Key Beach to Crescent Beach near Stickney Point, and seen out on the Gulf and intracoastal by boat. Good weather brings colossal crowds. Starts at 9pm. Check for more info: (941) 349-3800.
Venice: is shooting their display, to be seen from the beach at Nokomis to Venice FL. along the Gulf at dusk(around 9pm)
Clearwater: The city’s fireworks show is expected to light up the sky around 9:30 p.m. Saturday. The best viewing, city officials say, is at Coachman Park, 301 Drew S., where a number of activities are planned.
