The year-round sun and warmth of Florida makes it the ideal destination any time of year you need a break, and the heat and fun get turned up in July, especially around Independence Day.
Pack your bags and gather your loved ones for a fun and exciting vacation full of sand, water, and sun, as well as some patriotic fun to the itinerary this 4th of July in Florida. The Sarasota and Bradenton area has a myriad of 4th of July fun as well as regular activities for you to enjoy during your well-deserved break.
4th of July Fireworks on the Manatee River
Watch the night explode over the river. The dazzling display can be seen on the river between the Green and De Soto bridges on July 4, 2024. Fireworks can be seen from both the Palmetto and Bradenton sides of the river. The show starts runs 9:30-10 p.m.
Bradenton Summer Market
The market takes place monthly throughout the summer. Browse local arts and crafts, homemade goodies and treasures, and even score some locally-grown fresh produce. Plan your visit around the dates, or make sure to incorporate them in your itinerary if they’re happening during your trip. The market is the second Saturday of the month, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Old Main Street. If you’re able to stretch an extended stay with us, this July’s market is July 13.
Summer Circus Spectacular
Circus fans will no doubt be making at least one performance part of their 4th of July itinerary. The Circus Arts Conservatory and The Ringling have once again come together to present performances from some of the finest circus artists from around the globe. Performances take place daily, June 14 – August 17. Adult admission is $20 and children are $15 and can be purchased on the event page on the Ringling website. There are several performances available in early July. There are no performances on July 4th. Check the website to book tickets for a performance during your stay.
Bradenton Marauders
While some baseball fans vacationing in Florida will want to check out a Miami Marlins or Tampa Bay Rays, enjoy a minor league game right in Bradenton during your 4th of July stay. The team has home games July 1-3 before going on the road. They’ll return to their home field for another series of home games July 9-14.
Suncoast Summer Fest
The event kicks off the summer season and includes a series of special event fundraisers to raise money for organizations that benefit local children, teens, and adults with special needs and their families.
The events take place at various locations around Sarasota, and include the Bob Rizi Memorial Golf Classic on June 21, the “Friendliest Catch” Fishing Tournament on June 26, the “Waves and Wheels” party and fun run on June 28, and end with an explosive end with Bayfront fireworks for the 4th of July.
Beaches
An escape to a beach location like Bradenton and Sarasota this 4th of July means spending plenty of time on the beach. Spread your beach blanket and plant your umbrella for some time in the shade near the water. Step out into the sun and sunbathe, or change up your exercise routine with a walk or run on the beach.
Water Activities
If the waters of the Gulf seem to be calling your name this 4th of July, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and beat the heat. Swim in the waves of the Gulf or take a lesson or rent some gear for activities like stand up paddleboarding or kayaking. Zip across the water on a jet ski, or explore below the waves on a snorkeling or SCUBA adventure. Take to the water for a fishing excursion, either to the depths of the Gulf or just casting a line from the shore.
Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries
Take some “adults only” time and visit to the area’s wineries and distilleries. There are several distilleries that call Bradenton and the surrounding area home. Stop by venues like Naughty Monk Brewery, Darwin Brewing Company, Loaded Cannon Distillery, and more.
Wine lovers can make a stop at Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard. Their wines are made from grapes grown at the on-site vineyard. Go on a tasting or tour, or book a special event. Once you’ve tried everything, choose your favorite wines or spirits to take back to your rental to pair with a home-cooked meal.
Patriotic Fun in Bradenton and Sarasota
Enhance your 4th of July experience this year with a stay in a private vacation rental provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We offer units as small as one bedroom for a solo or sweetheart retreat, all the way up to eight bedrooms so you can invite all of your family and friends to experience 4th of July fun.
After a long day of 4th of July-filled fun, or in anticipation of the 4th of July cookout, make a home-cooked meal in your unit’s fully-equipped kitchen, and enjoy it in the spacious living/dining areas, or in a private outdoor space. Relax in a private bedroom, or gather the group, pop some popcorn, and watch your favorite movie.
Contact us today!