The year-round sun and warmth of Florida makes it the ideal destination any time of year you need a break, and the 4th of July holiday is a great opportunity to take a break and enjoy a long weekend and summer fun. Enjoy a vacation full of sand, water, sun, and fun with loved ones. The Sarasota and Bradenton area are destinations that provide the ultimate experience in Florida beach vacations. Not only do they have their own beaches, but they’re also close to several barrier islands that offer a different beach vibe for your 4th of July in Bradenton FL and Sarasota retreat.
Anna Maria Island
The small town of Anna Maria on Anna Maria Island knows how to throw a big 4th of July party. The fun starts July 2nd with fireworks at the Sandbar on the beach by Sandbar Seafood and Spirits. Then on the 4th, celebrate with residents and other visitors at the 4th of July Parade and Water Fight, hosted by the Privateers. The parade starts at 9 a.m. along Bay Street. The day ends on an explosive note with a fireworks show over the water!
Suncoast’s Largest Food Truck Festival
Head to the mall at University Town Center in Sarasota for some delicious food and Independence Day fun. The festival includes over 30 food trucks, a Kid’s Zone, and more. Admission and parking are free, and things are wrapped up Sunday night with a fireworks show. The festival runs July 2nd and 3rd, 2-9 p.m.
Fireworks
Fireworks will be exploding all over Bradenton, Sarasota, the keys, and surrounding area. If you can’t find a schedule or list of specific celebrations, just look up! Fireworks will fill the sky over South Jetty Beach, and other locations all weekend long. If it’s dark while you’re out during this 4th of July weekend, you’re sure to see the sky lit up.
Beaches
An escape to beach locations like Bradenton and Sarasota means spending plenty of time on the beach, no matter what time of year you come, but especially during the warm weather and waters you’ll find around the 4th of July holiday. You and your loved ones can spend a little extra time out in the sun and in the water. Sunbathe, change up your exercise routine with a walk or run on the beach, or brave the waters for a swim or snorkeling experience. Fly high above the beach and waves on a parasailing adventure for an additional adrenaline boost.
Beach Horseback Rides
Saddle up, take the reins, and head out on a different kind of horseback ride this 4th of July. While a trail ride along shared hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails is the usual experience, you can also take the experience along the sandy beaches of Bradenton and Sarasota. There are several companies in the area that provide horseback rides that stroll along the water on the beach, and even some tours where the horses venture out into the water for an extra splash. Whichever company you choose, advanced reservations are required, and they’ll need details like rider height, weight, and age so they can pair each person with the horse that fits their needs.
The Keys
Off the coast of Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding area is a group of barrier islands that protect the bay from the crashing waves of the Gulf of Mexico. Head to Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach, Longboat Key, or Siesta Key this 4th of July for an unforgettable day trip.
Breweries, Distilleries & Wineries
Add some adults-only time to your 4th of July fun and bring back something to make your celebration really “pop.” Visit the area’s wineries and distilleries. There are several distilleries that call Bradenton and the surrounding area home, including Naughty Monk Brewery, Darwin Brewing Company, Loaded Cannon Distillery, and others. If you’re a wine lover, add a stop at Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard, where the wines are made from grapes grown right at the on-site vineyard. Enjoy a tasting or tour or book a special event. Once you’ve tasted the offerings, choose your favorites to take back to your rental to pair with your favorite home-cooked meals.
Celebrate the 4th of July in Bradenton FL!
Enjoy your 4th of July your own way with a private vacation rental provided by Anchor Down Vacation Rentals. We offer units as small as 1 bedroom all the way up to 8 bedrooms for a 4th of July gathering that includes all your loved ones. After a long day, 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. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and 4th of July holiday and use the outdoor kitchen and provided BBQ grill for your traditional 4th of July cookout. After a day of 4th of July fun, relax in a private bedroom, or gather the group and watch your favorite movie or TV show. Choose a premium unit for perks like a fireplace, double ovens, flat-screen TVs, a private pool, and more. Include the whole family by asking about select rentals that allow your fur babies to stay.
Contact us today!