It's time for the 4th of July shenanigans and fireworks that light the Emerald Coast night sky every year! There are many different venues in the area that have celebrations that allow families and friends to celebrate this iconic holiday in ways most suitable for them. Annual races, fireworks displays, live entertainment, inflatables, and more can all be found under the umbrella of Independence Day celebrations on the Gulf Coast.
Events of the day will begin at 7 AM with two 4th of July fun runs one in Pensacola and one in Orange Beach. Pensacola will begin their 4th of July Pensacola Beach 5k at 69 Via De Luna. The after-party will be held at the Sneaky Tiki Bar with party accommodations including hotdogs, watermelon, beer, and $3 Bloody Marys! About an hour's drive away, Perdido Key, Orange Beach, and Gulf Shores residents will be flocking to The Wharf for the 9th Annual SHARK 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run/Competitive Walk. This Adventure Run requires participants to wear flag football belts during the race. "Sharks" will chase the participants and try to steal the flags! All flags must be intact when crossing the finish line to receive rewards!
As the evening approaches, the Emerald Coast will prepare for 3 fireworks events that showcase local Independence Day pride. The earliest fireworks show begins at 8:30 PM and can be seen from the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk and the Santa Rosa Sound! The next displays will be at 9 PM in Pensacola and Gulf Shores. Sertoma's Fourth of July over Pensacola Bay is the brightest fireworks display on the Gulf Coast! Vendors at this event will be providing live music, face painting, pony rides, etc. Make sure to be there early and get a parking spot! Last, is the City of Gulf Shores Independence Day Celebration where fireworks will be shot from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier.
As always, everyone please make sure to have fun and be safe! We hope everyone has a fun-filled Independence Day!