4th of July on Anna Maria Island

The 4^th of July is the biggest holiday celebration in the summer. It’s the unofficial peak of the season and many communities across the United States have events to observe the birthday of the nation. Anna Maria Island is no exception. Here are a few things that are planned for our area.

AMI Privateers 4th of July Parade

This parade is one of Anna Maria Island’s biggest events. It’s also one of the most fun events of the year. The Anna Maria Island Privateers are a local non-profit that raises money for scholarships for the young people of the local community. The parade is one of their favorite events. The parade starts at the north entrance to Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach. It then travels through 3 of the cities on the island, ending at City Pier Park in Anna Maria.

The floats tend to be pirate-themed, and the kids will love it. Beads and candy get thrown and that’s fun too, but the real fun is the water fights. Many of the floats have a knack for bringing out their water guns, so get ready to be wet! A lot of people in the crowd come prepared to fight back. You can too! The parade starts at 10:00 am and is scheduled to conclude at 12:30 pm. For more information, visit the Privateers website.

St. Pete Run the 4^th

If a 5K fun run sounds like a way for you to celebrate, then a short drive to St. Pete will let you get in on the St. Pete Run the 4^th. This untimed event is on a closed course, so you won’t have to worry about dodging traffic. The route runs along the St Pete Pier and the city’s scenic waterfront. Food from Bolay Kitchen and Astro ice cream is included in the entry fee. There is a shirt available for purchase with the proceeds going to help the St Pete Youth Farm. It is scheduled to start at 7:00 am. For more information or to register, visit the event’s website.

Ringling Museum of Art

If you’re looking for something a little less physical than a 5K, how about the Ringling Museum of Art, The State Art Museum of Florida. Located a short drive away in Sarasota, this museum houses 21 galleries and hundreds of works of art. Works from Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens are the foundation of the Museum’s extraordinary Baroque collection. The 4^th of July falls on a Monday this year and Mondays are free admission to the Museum of Art. For more information, visit their website.

Fireworks at the Sandbar

What is the 4^th of July without fireworks? One place to see them is at the Sandbar Restaurant right here on Anna Maria Island. The show will begin after dusk and can be seen from almost anywhere on the island. If you want a front row, the restaurant has a VOP package that includes food, drinks and valet parking. The Sandbar is located at 100 Spring Avenue, Anna Maria, FL 34216. For more information, visit their website. These are just a few of the things you can do around Anna Maria Island this 4^th of July. If you need more options, contact us and one of our local experts can give you some more options.