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NewsSarasota MagazineJune 25, 2026Sarasota County

Fourth of July Fireworks and Events Guide: Sarasota-Manatee

This guide outlines the various public celebrations, parades, and fireworks displays occurring across the Sarasota-Manatee region for the Fourth of July and the nation's 250th anniversary. It provides specific times, locations, and pricing for events ranging from free community festivals to ticketed VIP experiences.

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Why It Matters

Residents and visitors in Sarasota and Manatee counties can use this information to plan their holiday activities, identify free versus ticketed events, and note specific venue closures or parking requirements.

Key Facts

  • Nathan Benderson Circle hosts a July 3rd event starting at 5 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m.; parking ranges from $25 to $55.
  • Downtown Sarasota fireworks display occurs July 4th at 9 p.m. at Bayfront Park.
  • Siesta Key Community Fireworks take place July 4th between 8:30-9 p.m. at Siesta Beach.
  • City of Venice fireworks display is at 9 p.m. at north Brohard Beach; pets are prohibited.
  • Humprhis Park and the South Jetty in Venice remain closed due to 2024 hurricane damage.
  • Palmetto Fourth Fest at 801 Riverside Drive features fireworks at 9:15 p.m. with free admission and parking.
  • North Port Fourth of July fest at CoolToday Park begins at 6 p.m. with fireworks at 9 p.m.; admission and parking are free.
  • Bradenton's Rossi Park event begins at 5 p.m. with free admission.
  • Bradenton Marauders game at LECOM Park starts at 6:30 p.m. with fireworks following the game.
  • Sarasota County 'Spirit of 76' party at Selby Five Points Park runs 7-10 p.m. with free admission.
  • Longboat Key parade begins at 9 a.m. on July 5th (Saturday) at Bicentennial Park.
  • Venice centennial and America 250 parade begins at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Venice.
  • Anna Maria Island Privateers host a parade and water fight starting at 10 a.m. at Coquina Beach.
  • Marie Selby Botanical Gardens event runs 5:30-9:30 p.m. with tiered ticket pricing.
  • Lakewood Ranch Star-Spangled Spectacular at Waterside Place features a 9 p.m. drone show instead of fireworks.
  • Bishop Museum of Science and Nature offers a laser light show and fireworks viewing for $20 adults/$15 children.

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