Happy birthday, America! A beach vacation is an exciting way to spend the 4th of July, but it can be overwhelming to find local events and activities when you’re away from home.
No fear! I have your complete guide to all the best patriotic events happening on and around Anna Maria Island this year.
Fireworks
A good fireworks show is essential to a happy Fourth – and Anna Maria has the best.
The Sandbar Restaurant has been lighting up the beach sky for 32 years on Independence Day. This amazing show can be seen from anywhere on the island – I suggest finding a prime beach spot! The Sandbar also hosts a not-t0-be-missed VIP party at their special events pavilion. This year, tickets are $155 for adults and $50 for kids.
On mainland Bradenton, you’ll want to reserve a table at Pier 22 for premier viewing of the fireworks show over the Manatee River! Pier 22 is celebrating with a Pig Roast and Buffet. Tickets start at $69.95 for adults and $19.95 for kids. The open bar starts at $30.
Zambelli International will host the fireworks show over Manatee River. Zambelli’s show synchronizes music and fireworks – it’s sure to be spectacular!
Marina Jack’s In Sarasota~ Tuesday, July 4th for the spectacular evening of waterfront dining and the region’s largest Fireworks show! RESERVATIONS 941-365-4232 (The fireworks can be seen from the shore of the Sarasota Bay, or watch by boat. )
Parade
Show off your red, white, and blue in style during the annual Privateers’ Parade and Celebration! The patriotic parade begins at 10:00 am on Coquina Beach (South Entrance) and travels north on Gulf Drive to the City Pier in the village of Anna Maria.
Don’t miss the after party at D Coy Ducks!
Baseball
The only thing more American than apple pie is baseball! Independence Day wouldn’t be complete without this classic.
Join the Bradenton Marauders when they play the Palm Beach Cardinals on July 3rd. More than your average baseball game, this one is a party!
- First 1,500 fans receive a free t-shirt
- Pre-game parachute demo by the Para-Commandos
- Themed jersey auction to benefit the Manasota Goodwill
- Facepaint, balloon artist, kids zone
And of course, a fireworks show to end the night!
A Family Affair
If crowds aren’t your thing, or if you like to keep your party small, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the Fourth on Anna Maria Island.
A BBQ is always a family favorite! The majority of our properties come with outdoor grills that are perfect for a patriotic gathering, or head to the beach for a picnic. All of Anna Maria Island’s public beaches are equipped with picnicking facilities: pavilions, grills, restrooms, fountains, etc. You can reserve a beach pavilion online.
If you’re planning a picnic, check out these amazing Fourth of July recipes – yum!!
For party ideas, I found this great list of creative and patriotic party essentials.
And of course, our Pinterest boards are full of party and food ideas for even more inspiration!
Still looking for the perfect beach property to spend the Fourth of July? Look no further than Beach Rentals! Call or email us to find out what rentals are still available for the holiday.
The whole team at Beach Rentals hopes you have a safe and happy Independence Day! What are your plans for the holiday? Favorite picnic foods or Fourth of July traditions? Tell me in the comments!
