Sarasota’s America 250 Weekend: Fireworks, a Drone Show and Family Celebrations

Independence Day events begin July 3 in downtown Sarasota and continue across the region July 4.

Sarasota’s celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary will stretch across two days and include a downtown block party, a morning parade, an evening drone show and the traditional fireworks over Sarasota Bay.

Spirit of ’76

The City of Sarasota begins the holiday weekend Friday, July 3, with Spirit of ’76, a free celebration scheduled from 7 to 10 p.m. around Five Points Park and Central Avenue.

The downtown event will feature live entertainment, family activities and vendors as Sarasota begins its America 250 observance.

Longboat Key Freedom Fest

Longboat Key’s 23rd annual Freedom Fest will be held Saturday, July 4, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Bicentennial Park, 2730 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The free event includes a community parade, games, music, food and the rededication of the renovated park.

Star-Spangled Spectacular at Waterside Place

Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch will host its Star-Spangled Spectacular from 6 to 9 p.m. at 1560 Lakefront Drive.

Singer Noah Royak is scheduled to perform at 7 p.m., followed by a Circus Arts Conservatory performance at 8. A patriotic drone show will begin at approximately 9 p.m.

Complimentary trolley service is planned from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Seating is limited, so visitors may bring lawn chairs. Outside food and drinks are not permitted, and advance registration is not required.

Sarasota Bayfront Fireworks

The City of Sarasota’s traditional fireworks display is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. Saturday at Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive.

The show is expected to run until approximately 9:18 p.m. and is weather permitting. City offices will be closed Friday, July 3, but residential garbage and recycling collections will not change because of the holiday.

Visitors attending the Bayfront display should arrive early, expect traffic delays and consider using public transportation, ridesharing or parking outside the immediate waterfront area.

Weekend Watch: Five Sarasota Events for June 25–27

1. Celtic Throne

The touring Irish dance and music production visits the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Thursday, June 25. The production combines live music, storytelling and choreographed dance.

2. Vince Gill at the Van Wezel

Country Music Hall of Famer Vince Gill performs Friday, June 26, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are listed from $85 to $187, including fees. Doors open one hour before the performance.

3. Silent Movie at Sarasota Opera House

The 1976 comedy-drama starring Mel Brooks, Marty Feldman and Dom DeLuise screens Friday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Opera House.

4. Wonka Under the Stars

University Town Center continues its outdoor movie series Friday with Wonka. Families should bring chairs or blankets and check the venue’s weather updates before traveling.

5. Tap With Lamont Brown

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe hosts a tap program with Lamont Brown Saturday, June 27, from 1 to 4:30 p.m.—an option for residents looking to participate rather than simply watch.