TAMPA, Fla. – Family-friendly celebrations will bring All-American fun to several Downtown Tampa neighborhoods starting as early as 11 a.m. on July 4th as part of Mayor Jane Castor’s Boom by the Bay powered by TECO. The Tampa Downtown Partnership brings you this breakdown of all the places to have a blast before the fireworks go boom!
NOTE: TAMPA DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP STAFF ARE AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEWS DURING THE WEEK LEADING UP TO THE EVENT
RIVER ARTS DISTRICT
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Boom Bar opens at noon; Entertainment from 4 to 8 p.m.
– Enjoy a family fun area, entertainment, music, delicious food trucks, and a cold drink from the Boom Bar!
The Boom Bar will feature the exclusive Boom by the Bay popsicle drink “Boozy Boom Pop” – a watermelon citrus pop taking a summertime swim in a Cutwater margarita or mojito- available throughout the weekend while supplies last.
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Entertainment from 5 to 9 p.m.
– Catch live music from Jennifer and the For Reals on the Riverwalk Stage
TAMPA HEIGHTS
The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works
Fireworks viewing 🎇
Entertainment starting at 3 p.m.
– Take in live music, a hot dog eating competition, a kid zone, food, drinks, and fireworks along the waterfront
Water Works Park
Entertainment starting at 4 p.m.
– Celebrate with food trucks, music, and a free public viewing area for fireworks along the Hillsborough River
CHANNEL DISTRICT
Star-Spangled Sparkman at Sparkman Wharf
Entertainment starting at 11 a.m.
– Be wowed by a water ski show, live music, food, drinks, and fireworks along the waterfront
TAMPA RIVERWALK, BAYSHORE, DAVIS ISLANDS, AND HARBOUR ISLAND
Bayshore Boulevard
Fireworks viewing for largest fireworks display 🎇
Entertainment starting at 7 p.m.
– Enjoy a variety of food trucks, DJs, and waterfront views of the largest-ever fireworks display along Bayshore Boulevard
Friends of the Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade
Parade scheduled for 6 to 7:15 p.m.
– A patriotic parade of boats decked out in “red, white, and Bolts blue” will sail down Seddon Channel between Davis Islands and Harbour Island, then small boats will continue up the Hillsborough River to the bend at Armature Works
FOUR MORE BOOMIN’ NOTES FOR THE 4TH OF JULY
🕘 Fireworks Timing
All three Independence Day fireworks displays are scheduled for dusk (approximately 9:15 p.m.) but may be slightly adjusted due to weather. Fireworks will not be seen from Curtis Hixon Park.
🚌 Getting to and Around Downtown
Use a bike, transit, or rideshare to get Downtown- or if you drive, plan to park only once. To get around once you’re Downtown, walk, use rental bikes or electric scooters, hop on the free TECO Line Streetcar, or take the free Bayshore shuttle to head to the largest fireworks display.
Car Parking
– All city-operated garages will be available, along with street parking and private lot options. City of Tampa parking garages (including the Fort Brooke garage) will cost $10 for the day.
– Attendees can also park in Ybor City and take the free TECO Line Streetcar to the festivities.
– Accessible parking is available at all public parking facilities.
Bike Parking
– Free bike racks are located throughout Downtown.
– Free bike parking will be available at Bayshore Boulevard near the Davis Islands Bridge.
🎇 Free Shuttle Service to Bayshore
Free shuttle service to Bayshore Boulevard will be operated by Jolley Trolley from 6 to 11 p.m. All shuttles are accessible and will run in a continuous loop.
Shuttle Stop Locations
– Fort Brooke Garage (intersection of Whiting St. & Franklin St.)
– Marion Street Transit Center (1211 N. Marion St.)
– Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (intersection of Ashley Dr. & Twiggs St.)
– Bayshore Boulevard (near Swann Ave.)
🚤 Even More Independence Day Fun
Most Downtown restaurants and activities will be open on July 4th- check ahead with a business to confirm, then make plans for dining, visiting a cultural attraction, hitting the water with a boat rental, and more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
🍴 Can I bring my own food and drink?
You are welcome to bring food and soft drinks to the Tampa Riverwalk, public parks, and Bayshore Boulevard. Please do not bring alcohol due to open container laws. Adult beverages are available from businesses and at Curtis Hixon Park. The Riverwalk cup program allows for people to consume alcohol in a Riverwalk cup while they enjoy the Riverwalk and adjoining areas. Grilling and other cooking is prohibited.
🐶 Can I bring my dog?
Please remember that the fireworks will be loud and may not be a good environment for your four-legged friends. Well-behaved pets that are kept on a leash are welcome on the Riverwalk and in public parks. Service animals are always welcome.
⛱ Can I bring chairs, umbrellas, or coolers?
Chairs and blankets, as well as small coolers, will be allowed in public parks and along Bayshore Boulevard. Please do not bring alcohol. Large umbrellas or tents will not be permitted. For security, all items are subject to search, and please don’t leave your belongings unattended.
