There’s a lot of celebrating going on this weekend! I want to share some of the best places to watch Fireworks in Tampa Bay, but first, let’s talk about safety.
Tampa Fireworks Safety
If you’re headed out with kids in tow, be sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sunscreen. It will help ensure everyone is happy and having a good time. If you are thinking of bringing a popup sunshade or anything to outdoor events, check the event page to make sure it is permitted before spending the time and effort. Sunshades are great for reducing UV exposure, but they can also block the view for other event attendees. Plus, they would need to come down before the big firework show!
As you are putting your bag together, slip in a container of hand sanitizer so you can wash your hands on the go. And if you are feeling overcrowded or uncomfortable, separate yourself from the crowd and try to carve out your own space. Many people are ready for everything to be back to normal, but others are still anxious. If you are one of the latter, just check in with yourself, and if you get pushed out of your comfort zone, know that it’s OK to leave.
Make sure your fuzzy pals at home have a safe place to hide. Many don’t like the noise and excitement of the Fourth. If you choose to stay home with your four-legged friends, scope out the quietest area in your home and be prepared to offer them comfort.
Ok, let’s talk about where to catch some Tampa Bay fireworks!
Where to Watch Tampa Fireworks
Red, White, and BOOM by the Bay!
When: Sunday, July 4 at 3 pm. (fireworks at 9:15 PM)
Where: Sparkman Wharf, Armature Works, Tampa Convention Center, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Bayshore Boulevard
Cost: Free
It’s an all-day celebration with locations around the city! Fireworks will be visible from all locations, plus there will be food trucks and music. The party kicks off at 3:30 PM at Sparkman Wharf, then the Tampa Convention Center and Armature Works join in the fun at 5 PM. Food Trucks along Bayshore Boulevard will open at 7 PM, and music and entertainment will rock Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.
For updates about Boom by the Bay, text BOOM to 888-777 to receive text message alerts right to your phone.
American Victory Ship Presents Freedom Fest
When: Sunday, July 4 from 6 – 9:15 PM
Where: American Victory Ship & Museum
Cost: $14 for adults; children 4-12 are $7; kids three and under are free.
Get on board and enjoy the show. Watch the Tampa boat parade and the fireworks from aboard the WWII American Victory Ship. Plenty of fun for the whole family. More than just a slice of history, the event will feature food trucks, entertainment, a kid’s zone, and drinks.
Rev, White, and Brew Festival
When: Friday, July 2, 6 PM to 10 PM
Where: Lead Foot City, Brooksville
Cost: Adults, $10 or $15 if purchased at the gate; kids 12 and under are free.
If you’re a car aficionado, then Rev, White, and Brew is for you! Check out the car, truck, and bike show while listening to great music. Food trucks will be on-site, beverages will be on tap, and the night will be capped off with a great fireworks show.
Clearwater Celebrates America
When: Sunday, July 4, starts at 7 PM (fireworks at 9:15 PM)
Where: BayCare Ballpark (Tickets)
Cost: $5
If you’re into baseball, then there’s no more American way to enjoy the fireworks than at a ballpark. This year, you can catch the show from BayCare Ballpark. Limited tickets are available, so grab yours now!
Fourth of July Fireworks in Largo Central Park
When: Sunday, July 4 from 7 to 9 PM (fireworks start at dusk)
Where: Largo Central Park, Largo
Cost: Free
Enjoy fireworks from the beautiful Largo Central Park. Bring chairs and blanks (no tents) and save your spot! Take part in fun activities, listen to music, and nosh on some great food before the fireworks.
St. Pete Beach Fireworks
When: July 4 beginning at 9 PM
Where: Upham Beach
Cost: Free
Park yourself on the beach and be rewarded with a light show! Enjoy St Pete Beach during the day and save your spot for the fireworks. Fireworks will be launched from the north end of Upham Beach, which will be closed for safety.
St. Pete Pier Fireworks
When: July 2-July 4 with fireworks at 9 PM on July 4
Where: St. Pete Pier
Cost: Free
Celebrate all weekend with this 3-day holiday extravaganza. There will be something for everyone, including the inaugural St. Pete Pier Run, Silent Disco, Gulp Coast Craft Beer Garden, Food Trucks & Vendors, Pie Eating Contest, Live Music on the Visit St. Pete Clearwater Main Stage, Karaoke, Independence Day Movie, roaming entertainers, and more. In addition, city fireworks will be visible from the waterfront.
Other Fourth of July Events
All American BBQ Festival Presented by Budweiser
When: Saturday, July 3 from 3 PM to 10 PM
Where: T Pepin’s Hospitality Centre
Cost: $10 – $90
Spend the day before the big Tampa fireworks show enjoying the area’s best grilled meats! Watch the BBQ competition and sample amazing fare from Bay area pitmasters. Enjoy porch games, live entertainment, giveaways, cocktails, and more. Just come prepared to eat!
Friends of the Riverwalk Inaugural July 4th Boat Parade
When: Sunday, July 4, 5 PM to 7 PM
Where: Hillsborough River – Downtown Tampa
Cost: Free
Watch the parade of boats decked out in their Fourth of July best. The show starts at the Convention Center basin, and the boats will make their way to the heights and then end at Sparkman Wharf.
Safety Harbor 4th of July Parade
When: Sunday, July 4 from 10 AM to 2 PM
Where: Main Street, Safety Harbor
Cost: Free
Get ready to wave your flag! Watch the parade along Main Street, and then check out the ceremony afterward. There will be live music, free popcorn, cookies, and snow cones, and patriotic presentations.
Fourth of July Picnic in Craig Park
When: Sunday, July 4 from 10 AM to 2 PM
Where: Craig Park, Tarpon Springs
Cost: Free
Cool down this Fourth at Tarpon Springs! Take a ride down the water slide, try your hand at paddleboarding, or see how you score on various lawn games. Free hot dogs while supplies last! Enjoy live entertainment starting at 11 AM and a hot dog eating contest at noon.
4th of July Celebration at Avalon Park
When: Sunday, July 4 from 5 to 9 PM (fireworks at 9 PM)
Where: Avalon Park, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
If you are in Wesley Chapel, check out Avalon Park for local fireworks. Get the kids decked out for the bike parade, grab some delicious eats from area food trucks, enjoy performances by area acts, and more!
Lakeland’s Red, White and Kaboom
When: Saturday, July 3 from 6 to 9:15 PM (fireworks at 9 PM)
Where: Lake Mirror, along the Frances Langford Promenade
Cost: Free
Bring a non-perishable food item for donation and gain admittance to Lakeland’s beautiful fireworks show. Pack a picnic cooler and some blankets and enjoy some family time before the show.