Author: Ryan Hanak, Downtown Vision Summer Marketing Intern
As our nation gears up for its 250th birthday, now is the perfect time to plan a Fourth of July that is memorable for you or your family! #DTJax is packed with incredible events, summery eats, and patriotic spirit to keep anyone happy. Let this guide help you design an Independence Day weekend that’s truly one for the books!
The Fourth of July shouldn’t be celebrated in a single afternoon. Starting your celebration early is the way to make the most of your summer, and we have loads for you to do this July 3.
America Turns 250 with the Cummer Museum
Kick off your holiday itinerary at the Cummer Museum for “America Turns 250” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy live music, free admission, hands-on art, yard games, and seasonal treats among beautiful galleries and gardens.
Freedom Fest at Friendship Fountain
Afterward, make your way toward Friendship Fountain to experience the “Freedom Fest” from 5:30-10 p.m. This festive gathering highlights local musical talent, loads of food trucks, and of course, a patriotic light display. As a sweet bonus, the initial 1,000 visitors will receive a complimentary apple pie to honor this holiday!
Pre-4th Red, White & Blue Cruise aboard the Royal Princess Yacht
If your crew enjoys being on the water, consider setting sail for the “Pre-4th Red, White & Blue Cruise” hosted by Jax Yacht Charter. From 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., the Royal Princess Yacht offers a tour of Jacksonville’s breathtaking riverfront views, paired with entertainment for the family.
Since Independence Day lands on a Saturday this year, you’ve got a full day of excitement ahead! Start your morning by heading to the Riverside Arts Market to fuel up on fresh eats and buy some patriotic supplies from our city’s talented local creators and vendors, starting at 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
Fourth of July Celebration – America 250 at Riverfront Plaza
Head to Riverfront Plaza for the “Fourth of July Celebration – America 250” from 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This event features our city’s largest fireworks show, food trucks and a student art gallery from Jacksonville Arts and Music School (JAMS). Kids can enjoy face painting, balloon animals, and the River City Readers Bookmobile, all while supporting the Wounded Warrior Project.
If your ideal holiday involves being out on the water with a front-row view of all the fireworks, we have two fantastic opportunities for you to explore:
View Fireworks on the Water
Aboard the USS Orleck
Another option is to climb aboard the historic USS Orleck at the Naval Museum. Between 6:30 p.m. and 10 p.m., your whole crew can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, complete with lively beats by DJ Rantz, refreshing seasonal beverages, and a variety of local food trucks at this event.
All Aboard The Royal Princess
Or, step onto the Royal Princess Yacht between 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. for their July 4th Fireworks Cruise. This experience features a chef-curated barbecue, a front-row seat to the city’s sparkling fireworks and festive beats to keep the party going!
Happy Fourth of July, #DTJax! Looking for more exciting events taking place on Independence Day? Check out our events calendar to fill your weekend with all the activities across Downtown Jacksonville.