Your Guide to 4th of July Events Near 30A, Destin, Panama City Beach, Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Okaloosa Island, and Navarre Beach

If you’re planning a summer getaway with Best Beach Getaways, the 4th of July is one of the most festive times to visit Florida’s Gulf Coast. From classic beach fireworks to quirky parades and live waterfront concerts, each of our vacation destinations offers something memorable. Whether you’re relaxing on 30A or watching boats cruise past Anna Maria Island, you’ll find red, white, and blue celebrations that suit every style of traveler.

Here’s your go-to guide to local 4th of July celebrations happening in each of our markets:

30A Celebrations

Seaside Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate with small-town charm in Seaside. This iconic 4th of July event includes a festive morning block party and patriotic fun throughout the day. As the sun sets, gather at the Seaside Amphitheater for live music and a fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico.

• Location: Seaside Amphitheater, Seaside, FL
• Time: Block Party from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Fireworks at 9:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website

Rosemary Beach 4th of July Celebration
Rosemary Beach offers a full day of family-friendly programming. Start the morning with a bike decorating contest and parade, followed by old-fashioned games on the Western Green. Fireworks over the Gulf cap off a truly charming and fun-filled day.

• Location: North Barrett Square & Western Green, Rosemary Beach, FL
• Time: Parade starts at 8:30 AM; Fireworks around 8:45 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website

Alys Beach 4th of July Concert & Fireworks
Bring a blanket and picnic to enjoy an evening concert at the Alys Beach Amphitheatre. After sunset, enjoy a beautiful fireworks display lighting up the Gulf-front community.

• Location: Alys Beach Amphitheatre, Alys Beach, FL
• Time: Concert starts at 6:00 PM; Fireworks at 9:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website

Destin & Okaloosa Island

HarborWalk Village 4th of July Celebration
Destin’s premier fireworks celebration takes place along the bustling Destin Harbor. Enjoy live music, street performers, and food vendors, followed by fireworks over the water. It’s one of the area’s most popular waterfront shows.

• Location: HarborWalk Village, Destin, FL
• Time: Music at 7:00 PM; Fireworks at 9:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website
  

Red, White, and Baytowne
Celebrate the 4th at The Village of Baytowne Wharf with lawn games, inflatables, live music, and a beautiful fireworks show over the Choctawhatchee Bay. This is a great event for families staying in Sandestin or Miramar Beach.

• Location: Baytowne Wharf, Sandestin, FL
• Time: Activities start at 6:00 PM; Fireworks at 9:15 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website

Okaloosa Island Fireworks
Fireworks are launched from the pier, offering a gorgeous show over the Gulf. Many restaurants and beachgoers gather nearby, so plan to arrive early.

• Location: Okaloosa Island Pier, Fort Walton Beach, FL
• Time: Fireworks at 9:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website

Panama City Beach

Star-Spangled Spectacular
Panama City Beach puts on one of the largest and most exciting fireworks displays in Florida, launching shows simultaneously from both the City Pier and County Pier. This dueling display is synchronized to music and visible from almost anywhere on the beach.

• Location: City Pier & County Pier, Panama City Beach, FL
• Time: 9:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website
  

Light Up the Gulf at Boardwalk Beach Resort
A beachfront fireworks display with live music and DJs, hosted at the popular Boardwalk Beach Resort. Bring a towel or chair and enjoy the show from the sand.

• Location: Boardwalk Beach Resort, Panama City Beach, FL
• Time: Fireworks at 8:45 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website

Anna Maria Island & Longboat Key

Anna Maria Island Privateers 4th of July Parade
One of the quirkiest and most fun parades in Florida, this event features costumed pirates, beads, music, and water fights. The parade travels from Coquina Beach all the way to the City Pier and is a hit with kids and families.

• Location: Coquina Beach to City Pier, Anna Maria Island, FL
• Time: Parade from 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
  Cost: Free
• Website
  

Longboat Key Freedom Fest
This local celebration includes a patriotic parade, games, and a butterfly release. Perfect for those seeking a quiet, family-oriented morning event.

• Location: Bicentennial Park, Longboat Key, FL
• Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Cost: Free
• Website
  

Navarre Beach

Navarre Beach 4th of July Fireworks
Fireworks are launched from the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, lighting up the sky over the Gulf. It’s a beautiful, laid-back celebration perfect for couples and families alike.

• Location: 8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre Beach, FL
• Time: 9:00 PM
• Cost: Free
• Website
  

Travel Tips for a Smooth 4th of July Vacation

• Book Early: The 4th of July week is one of the busiest for Gulf Coast travel. Be sure to reserve your Best Beach Getaways vacation rental well in advance.
• Arrive Early to Events: Fireworks shows and parades fill up fast. Give yourself extra time for traffic, parking, and getting settled.
• Bring the Essentials: Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, chairs, and snacks—especially if you’re spending the day at the beach or attending a long event.
• Use Public or Alternative Transportation: Some areas, like Seaside or Destin Harbor, can be challenging for parking. Consider bikes, golf carts, or shuttles.
• Follow Local Rules: Some beaches prohibit personal fireworks or alcohol. Stick to designated celebration areas and enjoy professional shows.
  

Make Your 4th of July a Beachside Blast with Best Beach Getaways

Whether you’re watching fireworks from your oceanfront balcony or joining a local parade, the Gulf Coast delivers unforgettable Independence Day memories. Visit www.bestbeachgetaways.com to explore vacation rentals across all of these incredible destinations.