Tampa goes big for the 4th of July celebration every year. People gather to commemorate Independence Day and create unforgettable moments. We know how complicated it may be to choose a worthy destination in such a city full of events. That's why we compiled a list of the best-in-class events you might want to visit to have the time of your life.
Boom by the Bay (July 2024)
If you want to participate in Tampa's main celebration, Boom by the Bay is exactly where you should head. It's the Tampa Downtown Partnership and City of Tampa's official annual Fourth of July event, spanning six festive locations throughout Downtown Tampa. The program features family-friendly activities, live music, an apple pie-eating competition, food, kids' games, live shows, and pyrotechnics. Boom by the Bay boasts breathtaking fireworks displays from four different spots.
Fireworks shows
Tampa has really prepared a lot for you, and colorful fireworks displays can be spotted from every corner in the city. For example, you can head to Tampa Convention Center (the Sail Pavilion) at 5 pm, Hard Rock Take Over at Julian B Lane Riverfront Park at 7 pm, and Bayshore Boulevard at 7 pm.
4th of July Fireworks Cruise (July 4)
If you want to celebrate the 4th of July in Tampa with a bang, the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise by the Pirate Water Taxi is a great chance to make your dream come true. Departing from Tampa Convention Center Dock, this one-hour cruise includes a front-row view of Downtown Tampa's fireworks, which start at 9 pm. The cruise starts at 8:45 pm and lasts until 9:45 pm. You can also purchase drinks for an additional price.
Safety Harbor 4th of July Parade & Patriotic Ceremony (July 4)
Put on any red, white, and blue and join a patriotic parade down Main Street on the morning of July 4. The parade starts at 10 am, followed by a Patriotic Ceremony and community festival at Gazebo in John Wilson Park. Hosted by the American Legion Post 238, this celebration features live entertainment, kids' activities, delicious food, and more. Oh, and make sure to catch the fireworks at 9 pm!
July 4th Boat Parade and Blessing of the Fleet (July 4)
The July 4 Boat Parade and Blessing of the Fleet is a wonderful parade along the Tampa Riverwalk organized by a nonprofit organization, Friends of the Riverwalk. It starts in the Convention Center basin and travels to the Heights, with an endpoint at Sparkman Wharf. The parade features a Water Ski Show to kick off the celebration at 6 pm, a poker run and a blessing station at Sparkman Wharf. The best viewing spots are Armature Works, Channel Drive, Convention Center, Curtis Hixon, Davis Island, Harbour Island, Sparkman Wharf, and Water Works Park. The parade ends with a fireworks display at 9:15 pm.
