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15+ sparkling Fourth of July events across Tampa Bay

From classic firework shows on the river to yacht cruises, there’s something for everyone this Fourth of July in TBAY.

Fireworks light up the sky above downtown Tampa in 2021 during Boom of the Bay. The show is above the Hillsborough River at night time, with high rises in the background, and the Riverwalk in the foreground. The explosions are a mix of pink, green, blue, purple and yellow.

The lights on the river will get even brighter for one night only. | Photo via Visit Tampa Bay

In less than a week, the Tampa Bay sky will be aglow with fireworks — but where should you go to watch them? We rounded up 15+ Fourth of July happenings around TBAY.

Boom by the Bay, Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park
This free, family-friendly event will feature games, live music, and an Apple Pie Throwdown before culminating with fireworks by the river.

Star Spangled Sparkman, Sparkman Wharf
Viewing for the July 4th Boat Parade and Water Ski Show, live entertainment, face painting, and fireworks are free and open to the public — and a Premier Viewing ticket gets you access to an air-conditioned hydration station.

Freedom Fest, American Victory Ship & Museum
Step aboard “Tampa’s most patriotic venue” for photo ops, a silent auction, and one-of-a-kind parade and firework views.

4th of July Party, Cage Brewing, 2001 1st Ave. S., St. Pete
Post up with a slice of Kraken Joe’s pizza + a craft brew, then while the night away with live bluegrass from the Fil Pate Trio.

The Fourth: St. Pete Pier, Spa Beach Park + Family Park
This classic fireworks show will be visible from the entire downtown St. Pete waterfront.

St. Pete Pier Run, starts at St. Pete Pier
Run or walk four miles along the waterfront — with two waves at 6:30 a.m. + 7:45 a.m., you’ll have plenty of time to rest up before one of these other events.

Heights District Fourth of July Celebration, Armature Works
Come hungry for the annual hot dog eating contest, plus other family friendly activities + vendors. A private bar is available to Exclusive VIP visitors.

July 4th Independence Day Fireworks & VIP Celebration, Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
Your ticket gets you a barbecue buffet, an open bar, and prime viewing. What else is there to say?

4th of July Celebration, Busch Gardens
You’ll have four days to experience the choreographed music, light + firework show, along with thrill rides and free beer samples.

4th of July Aboard Yacht Starship, launch from 603 Channelside Dr., Tampa
Celebrate the Fourth in style: your ticket gets you a two-hour cruise, dinner buffet, open bar, and firework views from the water. Note: The dinner cruise is sold out, so snap up the viewing-only and VIP dinner tickets while you can.

Stars & Stripes BBQ Celebration, The Gulfport Senior Center
Raise money for the center while enjoying picnic food with all the fixings, a free drink (plus more from the cash bar), and an evening of community.

4th of July Concert & Fireworks, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach
BYO chairs, coolers, and blankets for a show from Boston + STYX tribute band Smokin Renegade, with food and drink vendors on-site.

Clearwater Celebrates America, Coachman Park
Local vendors, food trucks, and buskers will line the park, culminating in a free show the BayCare Sound Symphony, a fireworks show, and a silent disco party at Promenade Pier.

4th of July Parade in Safety Harbor, Main Street, Safety Harbor
Wear your best red, white, and blue for the American Legion Auxiliary parade.

Treasure Island 4th of July Fireworks, Gulf Front Park Lot, 10400 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island
Fireworks begin at 9 p.m., so bring your lawn chairs + blankets to catch a good view.

Gulfport 4th of July Celebration, Downtown Waterfront District
Try your hand at the Gulfport Marina’s Fishing Derby + free Family Sand Sculpture Contest, then catch the downtown parade and fireworks show.

Largo 4th of July Fireworks, Largo Central Park
Enjoy delicious food, live music from the 727s Band, and activities for all ages followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

Events
From tree lightings to gift shopping, it’s going to be a fun frosty-ish weekend
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