Fun, sun, sand, and warm temperatures year-round make Florida a great spot for a getaway any time of year. If you’re looking for all that as well as a patriotic flair, you’ll find everything you’re looking for during a Fort Walton Beach 4th of July. From Fort Walton Beach to Seaside, there are plenty of patriotic parties and fireworks displays to keep you happy, busy, and in a patriotic mood throughout your stay.
Fort Walton Beach Fireworks
Fort Walton Beach throws a party for the red, white, and blue you won’t want to miss. The day’s festivities end with an amazing light show of fireworks set off from a barge over the Santa Rosa Sound. A front-row seat from the Landing Park downtown is best, but you can see the show from anywhere along the water downtown. Times are TBA.
Smoke on the Coast at Destin Commons
Join in the festivities with local charities and restaurants and taste some of the best barbecues in Destin! The 11th Annual Smoke on the Coast BBQ and Fireworks Festival takes place at Destin Commons on July 3rd. There will be plenty of family-friendly activities, live music, a barbeque tasting for $1/sample, and more. Pick your favorite, then vote for the “people’s choice award” and see if your tastes match those of celebrity judges. The event starts at 5 p.m. with tastings starting at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks light up the sky in the evening, and the whole event ends at 10:30 p.m.
Independence Day at the Landing
After you’ve enjoyed the beach and its many activities on the 4th, head over to the Landing. The City of Fort Walton Beach celebrates Independence Day with a red, white, and blue patriotic event in the evening. The free event is open to the public and includes family-friendly activities, “Shenanigans”, live music, and a fireworks show. Events start at 4 p.m. on July 4th. For the kids, there will be bounce houses and games in the “Kid Zone” made just for them. Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the evening. Avoid busy parking lots and ride the Park & Ride Trolley for $1/per person in each direction (exact change required.) Fireworks will shower their patriotic light over Santa Rose Sound at 8:45 p.m. The event ends at 10 p.m.
Destin Harbor
From Fort Walton Beach all the way to Seaside, the Emerald Coast is lighting up with red, white, and blue this Fort Walton Beach 4th of July. Make the short trip to Destin for the fireworks show at Destin Harbor. Turn your attention to the skies over West Jetties Beach. The show, put on by the City of Destin, is approximately 15 minutes long and begins at 9 p.m. on the 4th.
Harborwalk Village in Destin
Join visitors and locals alike at Harborwalk Village in Destin for a 4th of July party that lasts all weekend. July 2nd – 4th you can head there for their annual Let Freedom Ring 4th of July Celebration. There are several restaurants and shops to enjoy throughout the day, and the party goes from 7-9 p.m. each night. Here is live music each night, then cap the patriotic weekend off with the Fireworks and Fire Spinning display starting at 9 p.m.
Seaside Fireworks
Come early and stake your claim on the beach, as well as in the limited parking area, in Seaside. The town puts on the only 4th of July fireworks show that is set off from a barge in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Cuddle up on a beach blanket and watch the show or turn your attention skyward from anywhere near the events stage that often features live music and entertainment. Free shuttles are available to give rides from the many locations along 30A. Keep in mind rough waters in the Gulf may cancel the show since the barge will not be able to navigate the water and conduct the show.
Fort Walton Beach 4th of July
From a cozy one-bedroom for a small family or sweetheart patriotic getaway to a spacious three-bedroom for a larger group, the Breakers of Fort Walton Beach has a vacation rental that’s perfect for you this Fort Walton Beach 4th of July. Step in and feel your stresses and worries melt away, knowing all your needs will be met in a place that feels like a home away from home. Enjoy making a patriotic home-cooked meal or delicious BBQ in a fully equipped kitchen. Stretch out with some popcorn and your favorite patriotic show or movie, or retreat to a private bedroom for a nap or a good night’s sleep. Choose a premium unit for flat-screen TVs, stainless steel appliances, a wet bar, and more to make your stay extra special.
Call us to start planning your 4th of July getaway in Fort Walton Beach today!