Anna Maria Island, a seven-mile barrier island located on the coast of Manatee County, Florida, is made up of three cities: Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach. And, when it comes to celebrating holidays, like the Fourth of July, it’s the perfect laid-back destination to celebrate in.
Fun on the Fourth
The Anna Maria Island Privateers Fourth of July Parade is an annual event that always draws a crowd. It’s a seven-mile parade route starting south at Coquina Beach and traveling to North Anna Maria City Pier — yes, it covers the entire island! Bring a chair, wear your patriotic colors and plan to catch some beads!
Additionally, Anna Maria’s Sandbar Seafood and Spirits restaurant will offer a special “Sparkling Good Time” package on July 2 to celebrate Independence Day. Dining with your toes in the sand has never been so good.
Furthermore, enjoy watching one of the best fireworks displays in Southwest Florida over Sarasota Bay on Independence Day! Organized by Suncoast Charities for Children in partnership with Marina Jack and produced by Pyrotecnico, the fireworks are an annual event for Sarasota. Anna Maria Island, being just off the coast, offers a good view and no traffic driving back to your room. Choose a comfy spot on almost any beach and settle in for a wonderful celebration just after dusk. (Note: You can also view from Bayfront Park near Marina Jack in Sarasota.)
In addition, nearby Bradenton offers an All-American celebration of baseball and fireworks on July 3 as the minor-league Bradenton Marauders host visiting Tampa Tarpons. Bring the family for a game and plan to stay for post-game fireworks.
Also, American Fanfare will be presented on July 4 at 4:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Opera House. Celebrate America with the Choral Artists of Sarasota and the Lakewood Ranch Wind Ensemble as they present favorites such as The National Anthem, God Bless the USA, Yankee Doodle, and other popular patriotic tunes in this 90-minute program (intermission included).
Enjoy a 4th of July Fireworks and Independence Day Buffet at Pier 22 Restaurant. The Bradenton waterfront eatery offers a salute to the red, white, and blue with fireworks over the Manatee River as well as an Independence Day buffet on the waterside terrace. Check-in is at 6:30 p.m., fireworks are at 9:30 p.m. and the buffet goes until 10 p.m.
Of course, the perfect holiday trip to Anna Maria Island starts with accommodations that cater to your specific needs, even pet-friendly rentals! Find yours today at Beach Retreats Vacation Rentals.
