Your St. Pete Beach & Tampa Bay Area Guide to an Epic 4th of July
While the entire country embraces the patriotic spirit with brilliant parties and events for Independence Day, St. Pete Beach in Florida offers something extraordinary: sugar-white sand and sparkling turquoise waters set the scene for an unforgettable experience.
Besides the vibrant parties filled with red, white, and blue, great live music filling the air, and the tempting aroma of sizzling seafood, the natural beauty of the local scenery and the seaside charm add a nice twist to the experience — this combination makes for an epic 4th of July at St. Pete Beach!
As night falls, the beach comes alive with a dazzling fireworks display, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It’s a truly unforgettable way to celebrate America’s birthday.
This blog will bring you the best events and happenings for the 4th of July in St. Pete Beach. Get ready for lots of sunshine, patriotic fun, and memories that will last a lifetime!
4th of July Events in St. Pete Beach
The Fourth at the St. Pete Pier
Known as “The Fourth,” this is the biggest celebration in the area and takes place on the St. Pete Pier on July 4th.
There are activities for all. Festivities kick off in the afternoon with a fun run, followed by live music, food trucks, a craft beer garden, local vendors, and a family-friendly Fun Zone. As evening approaches, the 13th US Army Band performs patriotic tunes, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display over the water at 9 pm.
- Date: July 4, from 4:00 pm – 9:30 pm
The St. Pete Pier Run is a 4-mile run/walk event held annually on the 4th of July in St. Petersburg. It’s designed to be a fun and celebratory way to kick off Independence Day festivities. The race is 4 miles, perfect for runners and walkers of all abilities, and the route goes through the scenic St. Pete Pier and waterfront. The event is very family-friendly and patriotic—a great way to combine exercise, beautiful scenery, and celebrating America’s birthday.
For more info and registration, go here.
Want to Dress Up in Patriotic Style?
There’s a costume contest happening at the event, encouraging participants to dress up in their most fun and patriotic attire. You can win prizes!
There are three categories:
- Best Overall Costume
- Most Patriotic Costume
- Best Group Costume
The 2×4 Challenge
The 2×4 Challenge is an optional challenge for runners in the St. Pete Pier Run. It involves running in both Wave 1 (6:30 AM) and Wave 2 (7:45 AM) of the race, which means you’ll be running a total of 8 miles.
Pie Eating Contest
Another fun event happening in the area is the Pie Eating Contest. It takes place at 8:00 am under the finish arch. There are only 20 spots available, so it’s on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s a fun way to add some messy competition to the celebratory atmosphere.
Good to Know
This is a popular event, especially in the evening for the fireworks display, so you can expect crowds. It’s best to arrive early, especially if you want a good spot to watch the fireworks or take part in popular activities.
The event usually includes a Fun Zone with activities for kids, keeping the little ones entertained as you wait for the fireworks spectacle. A big part of the fun is the festive atmosphere with live music and entertainment, which lasts throughout the day.
Watching the Fireworks from the Beach
While there aren’t fireworks directly launched from St. Pete Beach, you can easily admire the spectacle of the St. Pete Pier fireworks display from the beach. For the best views, it’s a good idea to head towards the southern end of the beach, where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy the show.
Other 4th of July Events Near St. Pete Beach and Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens Fourth of July Celebrations
You don’t need to wait until the 4th to let your patriotic spirit out. Every year, Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay, Florida, hosts a 5-day Independence Day celebration from June 30th to July 4th. Every night during the event, there’s a “Summer Nights Fireworks Spectacular” with music and a patriotic finale.
But there’s much more: shows include the revamped “Cirque Electric” with acrobatic feats and an electric band, and “Turn It Up! Remix” featuring an ice skating show with music and video elements.
Busch Gardens is a favorite of families visiting the area, known for its world-class thrill rides, and the 4th of July means the atmosphere in the park will be even more festive.
- Dates: June 30th to July 4th*
*Generally, the park is open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, but during the holiday, the hours will be extended. Check the park’s official schedule for more information.
Good to Know
The celebratory activities are included in the park admission, but be aware that food and drinks are not included, and you might need to purchase them inside the park, which means higher prices.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is 38.2 miles away from St. Pete Beach, FL. Normally, it takes approximately 50 minutes to get there by car, so plan your transportation accordingly and remember: it’s Independence Day weekend, so there might be lots of traffic.
Enjoy your own Independence Day backyard BBQ in your short-term rental
Other than fireworks, if there’s a classic way to celebrate July 4th, it’s with a great BBQ in your own backyard. One of the perks of staying in a short-term rental is that you can do just that — gather family and friends for this all-time favorite holiday activity.
Many of our vacation homes in St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area have fantastic outdoor areas with private pools and other amenities that will make your celebration even better. Some of these rentals are even pet-friendly, which means you can literally bring the whole family on the trip. Browse through our options on our website and see what awaits you!
More great things to do in St. Pete Beach and around on the July 4th holiday
There’s much more to St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area than just fireworks and July 4th celebrations. Here are some extra ideas:
Bask in Sun-Kissed Bliss at Clearwater Beach
Embark on a scenic 35-minute drive from St. Pete Beach to Clearwater Beach, a tranquil haven renowned for its pristine shores and inviting waters. There, you can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters or try water activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
The beachfront promenade is dotted with charming cafes and eateries offering great lunch options. At the end of the day, make your way to Pier 60 for a breathtaking sunset experience over the Gulf of Mexico — fireworks aren’t the only spectacle lighting up the skies!
Find History and Natural Beauty at Fort De Soto Park
You can also embark on a journey through history while soaking in pristine landscapes at Fort De Soto Park, just a short 17-minute drive from St. Petersburg. The park beckons with miles of serene beaches, an expansive tidal pool, and seashell-laden shores. Nature enthusiasts will love exploring the park’s 1,136 acres, which comprise five interconnected islands teeming with diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods, and native flora.
Make sure to carve out time to visit the historic fort itself, a structure dating back to 1898, and learn about its past and significance during the Spanish-American War.
Delight in Gulf Fresh Seafood at PJ’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant
No visit to St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area is complete without indulging in the great seafood offerings, and there’s no better place to do so than PJ’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant. A beloved fixture in the local dining scene since its establishment in 1993, PJ’s has captured the hearts of both residents and tourists alike.
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey with highlights from their menu, including mouthwatering Grouper Sandwiches, Baby Back Ribs, fresh Oysters on the half shell, Giant Lobster Tails, hearty Clam Chowder, and flavorful Gumbo.
Even the most discerning little diners will find joy in PJ’s kids’ menu. Plus, the restaurant goes the extra mile to cater to all dietary restrictions. Whether you choose a seat on the breezy deck overlooking the Gulf or prefer the comfort of the air-conditioned indoor space, PJ’s exudes a cheerful ambiance.
Fourth of July in St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay Area
For more insights on what to explore in St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay area, visit our destination blog. We cover many topics, including fishing in the area, nightlife tips, and highlights of the best annual events and celebrations. Stay tuned for future blogs and tips awaiting your discovery!
Where to stay when visiting St. Pete Beach & Tampa Bay Area, FL
While visiting St. Pete Beach and the Tampa Bay Area, why not stay like a local? With over 250 vacation rental choices, mostly on the beach or on the bay, Resort Rentals is your best bet for booking a great stay.
With us, your family will enjoy top-notch vacation rentals with all the quality and comfort you can expect. All you have to do is pick a fantastic family getaway spot on the Gulf of Mexico: St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Redington Beach, Redington Shores, Indian Shores, and Indian Rocks Beach.
Let us take care of the rest. Browse through our waterfront properties and see what awaits you in this beautiful coastal paradise.
