The City of Tampa is planning its largest-ever “Liberty by the Bay” celebration as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The family-friendly Fourth of July event will take place July 4 from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Julian B. Lane Park, with additional festivities and fireworks displays planned at locations across the city.
For the first time, the celebration will feature a 250-drone light show honoring America’s 250th birthday, followed by a fireworks finale.
Activities along the Tampa Riverwalk will include a kids zone, food trucks, a beer garden and live music. Additional attractions include a pet costume contest hosted by the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, a water ski show and a children’s procession at the Glazer Children's Museum.
The pet costume contest is scheduled for 5 p.m., followed by the water ski show at 6 p.m. and the museum’s Kids Liberty Procession at 6:45 p.m. A full schedule of events is available on the City of Tampa’s website.
Officials are encouraging attendees to use the TECO Line Streetcar system to help reduce traffic and parking congestion.
The drone show is set to begin at 9 p.m., with fireworks immediately following.
In addition to events at Julian B. Lane Park, a Patriotic Boat Parade organized by Friends of the Riverwalk will take place along the river. Fireworks displays are also planned at Armature Works, Jackson's Bistro Bar & Sushi and Sparkman Wharf.