There’s no place to spend your 4th of July quite like the Forgotten Coast! Whether you prefer beachfront festivities or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy doing on this holiday along the Forgotten Coast. Experience Independence Eve in downtown Apalachicola, marvel at the dazzling fireworks show at Mexico Beach, or show off your American spirit by taking part in the Sandy Shoe’s 5k Fun Run. The events on the Forgotten Coast extend beyond the 4th, with opportunities for both locals and visitors to engage in the 28th Annual Kingfish Tournament, discover more about Port St. Joe’s local owl population, or groove to live music under the enchanting light of a full moon.
FEATURED EVENTS
Independence Eve Celebration
Riverfront Park | Apalachicola
July 3rd, 2024
One day is not enough to properly celebrate Independence Day in Downtown Apalachicola. Come celebrate Independence Eve by shopping, listening to music, eating local food and more. There will be mini concerts, events (like the ice cream social), and local food venders set up at Riverfront Park to commence the 4th of July in Port St. Joe! The day will end with an outstanding firework display over the river.
Eastpoint Freedom Festival
Eastpoint
July 3rd, 2024
Join us for the 3rd Annual Eastpoint Freedom Festival along Highway 98. At dark thirty, there will be fireworks display over the bay.
Sandy Shoes 5k Fun Run
Under the Palms Park | Mexico Beach
July 4th, 2024
Kick off your 2024 Independence Day with a memorable morning run! Hosted annually by the Special Events for Mexico Beach, the Sandy Shoes 5k Fun Run is a beloved tradition brings the community together in fun and celebration. The gentle course is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with water stations and scenic views scattered throughout it. Sign up by June 14th or watch on the sidelines and spend your morning cheering on the participants!
Best Blast on the Beach Firework Show
The beach! | Mexico Beach
July 4th, 2024
Celebrate America’s birthday by attending the Best Blast on the Beach July 4th Fireworks Show along Mexico Beach. The show will begin at 8:30pm and will be visible from any vantage point on the beach! End your day on the sand by watching this spectacle with friends, family, and a beach front view.
2024 Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration – Port St. Joe
150 Captain Fred’s Place | Port St. Joe
July 4th, 2024
The Gulf County Tourist Development Council (TDC) and The City of Port St. Joe are teaming up to present a stunning firework display at 10:00PM ET on July 4th, 2024. Experience the spectacle from the Port St. Joe downtown area and George Park!
St. George Island Independence Day Festivities
St. George Island
July 4th, 2024
Everyone is welcome to join this annual July 4th celebration! Spend the entire day on St. George Island to enjoy many festivities with family and friends. At the end of the day, there will be fireworks on the beach behind the Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe at about dark thirty.
Carrabelle Fireworks
Carrabelle
July 5th, 2024
The lovely city of Carrabelle will host its annual fireworks extravaganza on Friday, July 5, along the Carrabelle Waterfront at dark-thirty.
The Owls of Florida – Nelson Mongiovi
201 Reid Ave. | Port St. Joe
July 20th, 2024
Did you know that owls are completely unrelated to hawks, and their evolution is something truly of a mystery? Come learn all about the local owls of the Forgotten Coast with The Joe Center for the Arts! During this fun hour and a half event, you will learn how owls hunt, what they eat, and their unique sensory organs and behavior. Come prepared with a curiosity mind as you learn more about these daring creatures.
Full Moon Event at Crooked River Lighthouse
Crooked River Lighthouse | Carrabelle
July 21st, 2024
The Crooked River Lighthouse will be hosting a Full Moon Lighthouse Event on Sunday, July 21, from 8:00-10:00 pm in Carrabelle, FL with live music from Kevin Andrew and the Rockulla Performers. The Rockulla Performers are made up of a variety of young talent that will be playing guitar and ukulele as well as singing an assortment of songs including some classic country tunes, timeless oldies, and more. For those brave souls who are bold enough to venture to the top of the tallest lighthouse on the Forgotten Coast, evening tower climbs are scheduled at 15-minute intervals throughout the event to see the Buck Moon in all its glory.
July Sunset and Full Moon Climb at Cape St. George Lighthouse
Cape St. George Lighthouse | St. George Island
July 21st, 2024
The July Sunset and Full Moon Climb at the Cape St. George Lighthouse on St. George Island will be held on Sunday, July 21, 2024. Visitors can enjoy this opportunity to view St. George Island, the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay under the evening sky.