Celebrate America at These Five 4th of July Events in Fort Myers

The Fourth of July is meant to be celebrated with family, friends, and neighbors. Luckily, the Southwest Florida area offers an array of Independence Day events that appeal to all ages. Here's a look at a few of the festivities you might want to consider attending.

1. 4th of July Parade
Fort Myers Beach

Start the day off with one of the year's best parades. The 4th of July Parade starts at approximately 10 a.m. and runs until 11 a.m., traveling down Estero Boulevard between School Street and Time Square. You'll see vintage cars, an array of floats, and boats decorated in the spirit of the holiday. Some of the parade participants will even throw candy, which is sure to appeal to the little ones.

2. 4th of July Fireworks
Fort Myers Beach

At dusk, fireworks will be lit off the pier on Fort Myers Beach, filling the sky with explosions of red, white and blue. Set up a chair or blanket on the beach, sit back, and enjoy the show. You'll also be able to see fireworks being lit off across the water on Sanibel Island, and if you pick the right spot, you’ll see them being launched from Bonita Springs too. The official event lasts from 8:45 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. on July 4th, so make sure you arrive early to beat traffic.

3. Fort Myers Miracle's Patriotic Fireworks Show
Hammond Stadium
14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy
Fort Myers

If you just can't wait until the 4th to begin celebrating, consider attending the Fort Myers Miracle's Patriotic Fireworks show the night before the big day. Scheduled from 6:05 p.m. to 8:05 p.m. on July 3rd, this event lights up the sky after the game at Hammond Stadium. Advanced tickets are on sale for $10.50 for box and drink rail seats, or $8.50 for lawn seating, and discounts are available for seniors and students with proper ID.

4. Freedom Fest
River District
Downtown Fort Myers

Head over to the River District in downtown Fort Myers to enjoy a block party beginning at 12 p.m. on July 4th. There will be four stages featuring live music and entertainment, a car show with cars new and old, and giant bounce houses. Enter the raffles for a chance to win incredible prizes, and at 9:30 p.m., find a spot to enjoy brilliant fireworks over the river.

5. Patriotism Pop Up Art Studio
The Franklin Shops on First St
2200 1st St
Fort Myers

If you love admiring the work of others and also creating your own art, stop in to The Franklin Shops on First Street between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. on July 4th. Artists will be painting flags to patriotic music, and you can paint your own flag to add to the collaborative piece that will be created.

The Fourth of July is a great time to venture out and enjoy the world around you. Have you heard of any other exciting events we forget to mention? Tell us about them in the comments.