With the Fourth of July right around the corner, it’s smart to start making plans early. What better way to celebrate your patriotism than fireworks galore? Check out these popular July 4th events and fireworks in the Gainesville area this Independence Day.
Ginnie Springs Annual Independence Day Celebration
Kick off your July 4th festivities with the Ginnie Springs Annual Independence Day Celebration on Sunday, July 1st. Located at 7300 NE Ginnie Springs Road in High Springs, the annual commemoration is selling general admission tickets for those ready to kayak, swim, snorkel, or tube down the river. Grab the family and have a fun day in the sun before the Jamie Davis Band and fireworks show starts at night. The perfect way to start off the weekend.
University of Florida Fanfares and Fireworks
On Tuesday, July 3rd, the University of Florida will host its annual Fanfares and Fireworks celebration from 6-10pm on Flavet Field. The event is free to the public and will feature local and regional bands, such as Bears and Lions, Billy Buchanan & his Rock ‘n’ Soul Revue, and the Gainesville Community Band. There will be concessions during the performances and a firework display to end the night at 9:40 pm. Also during the event, LifeSouth Blood center will run a blood drive for those interested in giving blood. What better way to celebrate fellow Americans than to give back to the community? Be sure to check out #FanFares18 on social media.
Melon Run
Don’t let all the hotdogs and hamburgers keep you from staying fit this holiday and start the morning of Wednesday, July 4th with the traditional Melon Run. The Florida Track Club hosts this 3-mile race at Westside Park beginning at 8 am sharp. Tickets for participants range from $5-25, but after the race, enjoy some complimentary watermelon and refreshments. Following the event is a short Kids Fun Run, so this is the perfect event for families with young children.
Lake Santa Fe Boat Parade
After you’ve gotten your workout in for the day, hit the water for the annual Lake Santa Fe Boat Parade at Lake Santa Fe Park. Beginning at 11 am, the circumnavigation goes counter-clockwise along the shore of the lake where viewers can see from the many docks. Anyone interested in participating is welcome to bring their boat and set sail, as long as they’re willing to decorate the vessel in red, white, and blue. If you have a boat, this is the event for you!
Micanopy July 4th Celebration
If you’re in the Gainesville area and want to venture south to Micanopy, their July 4th celebration festivities begin at 702 W. Third Avenue. This day-long celebration has taken place for over a quarter of a century now, and the fun isn’t stopping anytime soon. A parade kicks off the event at 11 am, followed by heading to the ballpark for music, food, and a free bounce house for children to be set up at 5:30 pm. All these activities lead up to the big fireworks show at dusk where blankets, chairs, and bug repellent are suggested for optimal viewing.
City of Alachua July 4th Celebration
Last but certainly not least, the City of Alachua has dubbed its celebration, “The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America.” Drawing in a crowd of more than 30,000 people, the annual event takes place from 3-10 pm at the Hal Brady Recreation Complex where partygoers can enjoy a full schedule of things to do for people of all ages. The event also generates great economic impact on local businesses with vendors serving great food and drink for the adults, while the kids partake in dozens of indoor and outdoor activities. However, the real fun comes later in the evening with live music along with a fantastic fireworks display at 9:30 pm. Check out the ‘hottest’ fireworks around!
Whether you’re looking to splash around, dance to live music, or sit back and relax during a fireworks extravaganza, nothing says ‘Merica like doing it with family and friends at these awesome events. Plan ahead and stop by any of the celebrations above to enjoy a safe and fun 4th of July in Gainesville!
Looking for more events and things to do in the Gainesville area? Be sure to check out 352area, your guide to everything Gainesville!
