Celebrate the Fourth of July in Sarasota!

Independence Day is a time for celebration, and Sarasota, Florida, is an excellent place to do it!

You can find many things to do in Sarasota whether you\’re looking for a parade, a festival, or fireworks.

In this article, we\’ll look at some top things to do in Sarasota for the Fourth of July.

Longboat Key Freedom Fest

The Longboat Key Freedom Fest is a fantastic event that offers entertainment and excitement for all ages. The festivities kick off at 9 a.m. with a patriotic parade that winds down Bay Isles Road, starting at the Longboat Key Public Tennis Center and ending at Bicentennial Park.

After the parade, head to the park, where you\’ll find various games and crafts for the kids to enjoy. They can release their butterflies, make patriotic crafts, and even take a pony ride. And, of course, no festival is complete without food. Waffles with strawberries and whipped cream are available for purchase. 

The famous \”Hot Diggety Dog\” contest, sponsored by the Longboat Key Rotary Club, offers prizes for the most patriotic, creative dog costume and the best owner and dog combination.

Myakka River Kayak Fest

The Myakka River Kayak Fest is a great option if you want something more active. This year\’s 4th Annual Kayak Festival – 4th of July Jam Blast promises to be filled with family-friendly entertainment, great music, and plenty of kayaking and canoeing on the beautiful Myakka River.

Live entertainment starts at 11 a.m. with Steve Arvey, followed by George Worthmore\’s unique Americana/Bluegrass sound from 12:30-4 p.m. But that\’s not all – the festival also offers kayak and canoe rentals starting at 8 a.m. If you don\’t have your own, or bring your vessel and launch it from the ramp at Snook Haven.

Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix

The Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix is a must-see for those who love high-speed action. This race takes place on the Fourth of July weekend and features some of the fastest powerboats in the world. Spectators can watch from the beach or boats anchored in the bay.

Firework Displays

No Fourth of July celebration is complete without a fireworks display, and Sarasota offers several options.

Nathan Benderson Park Fireworks

The Nathan Benderson Park Fireworks display is among the most popular in Sarasota. This display takes place on the Fourth of July and features a stunning array of fireworks set to music. Spectators can watch from the park or boats on the lake.

Fireworks over Sarasota Bay

The Fireworks over Sarasota Bay display is another must-see event. This display takes place on the Fourth of July and offers stunning views of the fireworks from several locations along the bay.

Fireworks begin at dusk – approximately 9:15 p.m. and launch north of the volleyball courts at Siesta Key Public Beach. Viewing is good south of the Public Beach, anywhere on Crescent Beach, from the Gulf or the Intracoastal Waterway.

Siesta Key Public Beach Display

The Siesta Key Public Beach Display is a great option for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. This display takes place on the Fourth of July and offers a relaxed beach setting for watching the fireworks.

Stay with Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals

Gulf Coast Vacation Rentals offers a stunning collection of Siesta Key vacation rentals and provides the perfect home away from home for any traveler, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family. With easy access to the best of Sarasota and the Florida Gulf Coast, you\’ll be able to experience everything this beautiful region has to offer.

Our vacation rentals range from quiet cottages to lavish villas, providing various accommodations to meet any traveler\’s needs. And if you\’re looking for even more relaxation and fun in the sun, many of our properties come equipped with pools, so you don\’t have to leave the premises to enjoy the Florida sunshine.