Anna Maria Island boasts a beautiful beach that stretches seven miles long. Every part of the beach has a unique offering that will delight you and your family.
This handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about spending the 4th of July in Anna Maria Island.
Independence Day Parade
Photo Credit: lstuvik via Flickr CC2.0 PIER 22 Restaurant Fireworks and Buffet
Photo Credit: pier22dining.com Bradenton's PIER 22 Restaurant is another fantastic place to catch some of Anna Maria Island's best fireworks, as well as sample a massive buffet of family-friendly favorites. These festivities are exceptionally popular with locals and visitors alike, so make sure you get there early.
It all starts at 6:30 p.m. with a pig roast and a giant buffet. After you have your fill, you can find a great spot on the beach to watch the fireworks display, which will start around 9:30 p.m. While the PIER 22 Restaurant Fireworks and Buffet celebration is a family-friendly event, alcohol is served. Legal guests are invited to toast the holiday by purchasing a wristband and partaking in the open bar.
Hot Diggity Dog Parade
Photo Credit: annamariaislandcondorentals.com If you head to Longboat Key, you will find one of the most unique 4th of July offerings on the beach. The Annual Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade is an annual favorite that rivals Anna Maria Island's big Independence Day Parade.
It's a good idea to get there early. While the parade starts at 8:30 a.m., people start setting up their chairs along the parade route at least 45 minutes prior. Expect fire trucks, bicycles, police cars, and some of Anna Maria Island's cutest furry friends. After the parade, there are games and food at nearby Bicentennial Park.
If you put this all-ages event on your Anna Maria Island 4th of July to-do list, plan to spend at least half the day.
WATCH THE BRADENTON MARAUDERS
This isn't an official Fourth of July celebration, but heading to the ballpark to watch a baseball game and enjoy a hotdog (or two) is about as all-American as it's possible to be! Check the official schedule for game dates — you'll usually find that one is scheduled around Independence Day.
SARASOTA BAY FIREWORKS
Over in Sarasota you'll find another spectacular fireworks display that is well worth traveling for. This display traditionally takes place on July 3rd and combines live music, a kids' zone, a 5 km fun run, and a fantastic firework display. The event takes place at Nathan Benderson Park, and general admission is free. Head down when the gates open at 5 p.m. to bag a great spot.
SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO VISIT AMI
Photo Credit: shutterstock.com/Kelly0707
Whether you're in town for the Fourth of July parade or to simply enjoy a long weekend lazing on our many beautiful beaches, you'll never forget a summertime spent on our beautiful island.
The weather from June through August ranges from the mid-70s to the low-90s, making it the best season to enjoy the long stretches of white sand. Many watersports are on offer for those who enjoy getting out on the ocean, or land lovers can hire bicycles to explore the island at their own pace.
Summer is also the ideal time to indulge in some al fresco dining, and you'll be spoilt for choice with the large selection of waterfront restaurants here in AMI.
MAKE YOUR 4TH OF JULY THE MOST MEMORABLE ONE YET!
Be sure to book your Anna Maria Island vacation rental early — vacation homes book up months in advance with visitors who don't want to miss our July celebrations.
