You may have already been spending the summer celebrating America and eating hot dogs and hamburgers, but on the off chance that you haven’t, the one day of the year dedicated to such activities is right around the corner. There’s always the backyard barbecue scene, but there are also a host of events going on around Tampa this Fourth of July season that might help you get into the red, white and blue spirit.
Tampa Red, White, and Blue Festival
3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Free
Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park | 601 Old Water St. | (813) 447-8538
This is a free event in downtown Tampa with live music, food, an “American Art Zone”, a best dressed contest and lots of entertainment for kids and families.
Red, White and Booze
All day, fireworks at 9 p.m.
American Social Bar & Kitchen | 601 S. Harbour Island Blvd | (813) 605-3333
Celebrate the Fourth at American Social with fireworks and discounted booze. Deals include $4 Tito’s Handmade Vodka/Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey and $3 Bud Light and Budweiser all day long.
Fourth of July Pool Party
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free
Bryan Glazer Family JCC | 522 N. Howard Avenue | (813) 575-5900
Music, games, a bouncy house and more. The new JCC is hosting a pool party for the Fourth at their Mezrah Family Aquatic center that is free and open to all. Food and drinks will be available at the J Cafe.
Bands and Brew BBQ
12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
wtr Tampa | 7700 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway | (813) 265-1234
The restaurant and pool located in The Godfrey Hotel is celebrating the Fourth of July with live music and BBQ that gives back. A portion of proceeds will go to Armed Forces Families Foundation to help support the families of those deployed overseas.
Downtown Tampa Independence Day Fireworks Celebration
6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Free
Along the Tampa RiverWalk | 333 S. Franklin St | (813) 221-1539
Due to construction at the traditional fireworks viewing location, Channelside Bay Plaza, the fireworks show this year will occur in the harbor in front of the Tampa Bay Convention Center. Viewing available along the Tampa Riverwalk and adjacent venues within the vicinity of the harbor.
4th of July Fireworks at The Sail
11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The Sail | 333 S. Franklin St | (813) 274-7778
The Sail is one of the many places that has a great view of the fireworks along the river that also serves food and drink. They’ll have live music and plenty of outdoor space for pouches looking to join the fun; those, of course, who aren’t scared by the loud noises.
American Victory Ship Family Funfest
6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
$13, $7 ages 4-12, 3 and younger free, $10 military/veterans
American Victory Ship | 705 Channelside Dr. | (813) 288-8766
From the deck of the former WWII supply ship view fireworks, participate in DJ dancing, games, face painting, arts and crafts, food, contests, and giveaways. Get your tickets early because this fun-packed event usually sells out.
Independence Day at the History Center
10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Free for Bank of America cardholders, $5 admission
Tampa Bay History Center | 801 Old Water St. | (813) 228-0097
Historical re-enactors in costume will be sharing hands-on displays of artifacts, uniforms, crafts, and music that harken back to the Civil-War, Seminole War, Spanish American War, and WWII eras. Admission also get you a tour of the American Flags: The Stars and Stripes in American History and Culture exhibit.
Fourth of July Fireworks Cruises
5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Adult $129.95, Child $89.95
Yacht StarShip Cruises & Events | 603 Channelside Dr. | (813) 223-7999
Spend the fourth on the water with Yacht StarShip dinner cruises. With an endless buffet, DJ entertainment, and a spectacular view of the fireworks there won’t be a shortage of patriotism.
Downtown St. Petersburg Fireworks Show
9:15 p.m.
Free
Vinoy Park | 501 Fifth Ave. N.E. | (727) 893-7441
This year’s fireworks can be seen from most of St. Pete’s waterfront green spaces and keep an eye on the weather because that may impact the start time. Vinoy Park will be closed all day in preparation.
Fourth of July at the Glazer
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free for active military, $4 all day admission
Glazer Children’s Museum | 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza | Tampa. (813) 443-3861
While enjoying the other festivities downtown, the Glazer Children’s Museum can be an air-conditioned haven from the heat for you and your family. With plenty activities for kids, cool off and keep them busy for a discounted price.
Temple Terrace Parade and Fireworks
10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Free
Temple Terrace Rec Center | 6610 E. Whiteway Dr. | (813) 989-7004
1st Fairway of Temple Terrace Golf Course | 200 Inverness Ave.
The Fourth of July parade begins at Whiteway and Gillette Avenue this year, then moving south, with the theme of “Live The Arts!” The evening festivities start at six o’clock at the first fairway of Temple Terrace Golf Course with food vendors and music and fireworks at a quarter past nine.
