Where to go for Fourth of July fireworks and events around Bradenton and Sarasota

Robyn Murrell
·4 min read

From the Manatee River to Sarasota Bay, the skies will light up red, white, and blue for Fourth of July events in the region.

Holiday options include fireworks shows, viewing parties, concerts and family activities.

Here’s a list of Independence Day events near you:

BRADENTON MARAUDERS INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION

Prepare for a light show beyond the ballpark.

The Bradenton Marauders of the Florida State League will celebrate Independence Day on Monday at LECOM Park.

The team will face the Clearwater Threshers. The first 1,500 guests will get free T-shirts. Fireworks will follow the game. Monday’s game will conclude a six-game series with the Threshers.

  • Details: Gates at 5 p.m.; game begins at 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 3 at 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Tickets $10-$14.

  • Info: 941-747-3031. milb.com/bradenton

FIREWORKS ON THE LAKE AT NATHAN BENDERSON PARK

Why wait for the fourth to celebrate? Nathan Benderson Park will have a fireworks display and patriotic festivities on Monday, July 3.

The event includes activities for all ages and live music.

Those who want to watch the show at home can tune in to WWSB ABC 7 on Tuesday, July 4, at 9 p.m. for a recorded Independence Day special.

At the event, you must be with your group before 8:30 p.m. Drop-offs are not allowed.

  • Details: Monday, July 3. Gates open at 5 p.m.; music starts at 5:30 p.m.; fireworks launch after 9 p.m. Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Admission is free. Parking is $30 per car on Regatta Island and $20 in the park’s south lot ($50 for recreational vehicles).

  • Info: nathanbendersonpark.org

PALMETTO FOURTH FEST

Palmetto will celebrate the Fourth of July and Founders Day on Tuesday.

On July 1, 1897, Palmetto was incorporated as a city. The city will celebrate both its 125th anniversary and the nation’s founding day at its 12th annual Fourth Fest.

The headliner will be the American rock band Great White. Darryl Worley, a country music singer, will perform as the opening act.

In addition to live music, the event will feature local merchants selling food and drinks. The festival is free. There’s no allocated seating, so bring your lawn chairs or blanket and find the best spot to sit.

Following the concert, Palmetto, Bradenton, and Manatee counties will host a fireworks display over the Manatee River.

  • Details: Fourth Fest kicks off at 6 p.m. July 4. Fireworks begin around 9:30 p.m. Sutton Park, 1036 Sixth St. W., Palmetto. Free.

  • Info: facebook.com/palmettocra

BEACH, RIVER AND BAY FIREWORK DISPLAYS

MANATEE RIVER FIREWORKS SHOW

Palmetto and Bradenton share the love on the Fourth of July with a fireworks display visible on both sides of the Manatee River. So grab a spot on the Bradenton Riverwalk, Riverside Drive, a waterfront restaurant, or a friend’s boat deck to enjoy the show.

  • Details: Fireworks are set to begin around 9:30 p.m. July 4 over the Manatee River.

SIESTA KEY FIREWORKS

The Siesta Key Community Fireworks will take place at Siesta Key Beach on Tuesday.

The yearly fireworks show has been going on for more than 30 years.

Military members, veterans, first responders, medical staff and teachers can purchase a Heroes Package ($100 for a family of four), which includes reserved parking, food, beverages and VIP seats. For more information on the Heroes Package, call Marisa Merlino at 941-349-3800.

  • Details: Tuesday, July 4.Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Road.

  • Info: events@siestakeychamber.com

SARASOTA BAYFRONT FIREWORKS SHOW

On the Sarasota Bayfront, celebrate the Fourth of July. Suncoast Charities for Children is organizing a fireworks display over Sarasota Bay in collaboration with Marina Jack. Bayfront Park, near Marina Jack, may have the best view.

Mattison’s City Grille in downtown Sarasota is the place to be on July 4 in Sarasota. The fireworks at Bayfront Park are a short walk from Mattison’s.

BRADENTON RESTAURANTS HOST FIREWORKS PARTIES

Oak and Stone - Craft Beer & Artisan Pizza

Oak and Stone in downtown Bradenton is having a watch party on its rooftop deck with an “uninterrupted” view of the Manatee River firework display. A ticket includes a $50 food and beverage credit to dine at the restaurant, as well as seating for the fireworks show.

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

  • Details: Check-in at 5 p.m. Tuesday. Oak and Stone, 102 Old Main St., Bradenton. $100 per person.

  • Info: oakandstone.com

4TH OF JULY AT MATTISON’S

Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille on the Bradenton Riverwalk will be open on Tuesday for people who want to view the Manatee River fireworks show while enjoying live music by Mark Unbanded.

  • Details: Opens 11 a.m. Monday; music starts at 5 p.m. 101 Riverfront Blvd. #120, Bradenton. Reservations recommended.

  • Info: mattisons.com