Where to Watch Fireworks & Celebrate the Fourth of July Near Sarasota

There’s nothing like a Gulf Coast Fourth of July—sunshine, sand, boat parades, barbecues, and of course, spectacular fireworks to end the day with a bang! Whether you're staying on Longboat Key or in one of our beautiful RVA vacation rentals in Sarasota, Siesta Key, or Venice, you’ll find family-friendly events and patriotic fun all around.

So grab your lawn chairs, beach blankets, and red, white & blue gear—here’s where to catch the best fireworks and celebrations in the area:

July 3, 2025

Fireworks on the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park

• 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota
• Gates open at 5 p.m., fireworks just after 9 p.m.
• Parking: $25–$35; VIP: $120/adult, $75/child

Enjoy live music, games, food, and fireworks over the water in this family-friendly pre-Fourth celebration.
Event Info

July 4, 2025

Bayfront Park Fireworks (Downtown Sarasota)

• 5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota
• Fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

Watch the sky light up from Marina Jack or anywhere along the waterfront. Arrive early for the best view!

Siesta Key Community Fireworks

• 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key
• Fireworks at dusk

Now in its 34th year, this beloved show is free and open to the public. Watch from Siesta Beach or nearby shoreline spots.

Venice Beach Fireworks at the South Jetty

• 2000 Tarpon Center Drive, Venice
• Begins around 9 p.m.

Watch Venice’s dazzling fireworks launched from Brohard Beach. Best viewed from the South Jetty.

Manatee River Fireworks

• Palmetto & Bradenton sides of the Manatee River
• Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

A favorite for riverfront viewing—grab a seat at Riverwalk, the Green Bridge, or Bradenton’s downtown piers.

Freedom Fest at CoolToday Park

• 18800 W. Villages Parkway, North Port
• Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m.; fireworks at 9 p.m.

Featuring patriotic tributes, a flyover, and live performances.

Selby Gardens All-American Cookout

• 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
• 5:30–9:30 p.m.

Enjoy food, games, and fireworks with waterfront views at this family-friendly downtown celebration.
$25–$35 adults, $10 kids, under 4 free
Event Info

Parades & Daytime Celebrations

Freedom Fest on Longboat Key

• Bicentennial Park, 500 Bay Isles Rd.
• 9–11 a.m.

Join the local fun with the “Hot Diggity Dog” parade, face painting, butterfly release, and a $500 prize for best float.
More Info

Anna Maria Island Privateers Parade & Picnic

• Starts at Coquina Beach, ends at City Pier Park
• Parade at 10:30 a.m., picnic at noon

Local “pirates” throw a wet and wild Independence Day parade followed by a picnic with food and entertainment.

Star-Spangled Spectacular at Waterside Place (Lakewood Ranch)

• 1560 Lakefront Drive, Sarasota
• 5:30–10 p.m.

Carnival games, food vendors, performances, and a drone light show! Complimentary trolleys available from off-site lots.

Celebrate Like a Local with RVA Resort Vacations

Wherever you watch the fireworks, there’s no better place to call home than your own private vacation rental with RVA. From beachfront condos on Longboat Key to family-friendly homes near Sarasota’s bayfront, we’ve got the perfect place for your holiday stay.

Wondering where to stay to celebrate the 4th of July in Sarasota? Book your perfect beach stay with us here! Choose from several resorts and hundreds of gulf coast vacation rentals in Sarasota, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Ana Maria Island, Bradenton, & Siesta Key.