Water Ferry
Newsletter
Travel Guide
Sustainability
Celebrate the Fourth of July in the Bradenton Area
Independence Day Celebrations
Red, white, and YOU! Every year, the Bradenton Area puts on a vibrant mix of family-friendly fun, waterfront festivals, and unforgettable fireworks displays. Whether you’re here for the parades, pirate shenanigans, or riverside fireworks, here’s how to celebrate the Fourth of July in authentic Florida style.
Fireworks Over the Manatee River & Palmetto fourth fest
When: July 4th, beginning at 5 p.m.
Where: Rossi Park (Bradenton) & Riverside Park (Palmetto)
The cities of Bradenton and Palmetto team up for a massive, synchronized celebration on both sides of the Green Bridge. Highlights include: live music, food trucks, kids zones, artisan markets in both parks, VIP areas. Fireworks launch from the Green Bridge at 9:00 p.m.!
For a luxury experience and the best views, snag a reservation at Oak & Stone, PIER 22, Oyster River Rooftop, Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant, or Mila’s on the Manatee. Or get a ticket for The Bishop Museum of Science + Nature’s Red, White and Boom! event, featuring add-on laser light shows in the Planetarium. This is the signature fireworks show in the Bradenton Area and is what all of the festivities lead up to. Don’t miss it!
Anna Maria Island Privateers Parade & Water Fight
When: July 4th, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: From Coquina Beach to the Anna Maria City Pier
A beloved island tradition, this parade turns into a full-on water battle with the AMI Privateers leading the charge. Highlights include: Pirate-themed floats and costumes, parade spectators and floats engage in a safe water toy battle, beads, smiles, and community spirit. And prepare to get wet!
Independence Day Celebration at LECOM Park
When: July 3
Where: LECOM Park, Bradenton
Celebrate America’s birthday with America’s pastime as the Bradenton Marauders hit the field in patriotic jerseys. Highlights include baseball game featuring the Bradenton Marauders, a special t-shirt giveaway for the first 1,500 fans, and a postgame fireworks show. Arrive early to grab your shirt—and stay late for the big finale in the sky!
Fireworks on the Lake at Nathan Benderson Park
When: July 3
Where: Nathan Benderson Park
Start your celebration a day early at this high-energy lakeside event. Highlights include live music, festive food and drink vendors, a Kids’ Zone presented by Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, family activities and inflatables, fireworks over the lake starting around 9 p.m. Bring your blankets and chairs—this is one of the biggest fireworks displays in the region!
Make the Fourth Your Favorite Holiday
Whether you’re looking for small-town charm, beachside fireworks, or big celebrations on the river, the Bradenton Area offers unforgettable ways to celebrate Independence Day. Mark your calendars every year—you’ll want to make this tradition an annual one!
Arts & Culture
Come, savor the extraordinary, and indulge in the irresistible allure of the Bradenton Area!
Hotels & Resorts
Experience the Bradenton Area’s charm, where each hotel and resort promises that your journey begins with a stay as memorable as the destination itself.