The 4th of July, Independence Day, the day we celebrate our country’s independence from Britain.  We've done it for years, as far back as we can remember really. It's a day ingrained in those of us raised in the good ole' US of A.  It's a day we look forward to, a day that signifies family, fun and American pride.  We plan reunions, beach parties and Bar-B-Ques, unabashadly noshing on pot-luck potato salads, hamburgers and hot dogs as we enjoy parades and apple pie in anticipation of nightfall. Kids fidget enough to through off sparks of their own waiting for dusk. We begin lighting fireworks purchased under huge red and white striped tents, legal to buy, but illegal to light, we don't care as we light the fuse, it's nighttime, and it's the 4th of freaking July! Time to light up the sky! Use this handy 4th of July Fireworks and Parade Guide 2016 | Tampa Bay to choose where you will be found Monday night uttering, "Oooh and Ahhh" as we celebrate our most precious gift, Freedom!

4th of July Fireworks and Parade Guide 2016 | Tampa Bay

2016 Brandon 4th Of July Parade

Bring your folding chairs, suntan lotion, sunglasses and water to enjoy the largest Fourth of July Parade in Florida! Please Note:  The 4th of July Fireworks at Westfield Brandon Town Center are not happening this year, the Mall is terribly upset but can't hold them due to risk cited by the Fire Marshall.  The Mall is now sponsoring the Red, White and Blue Festival listed below as their family-friendly recommendation. 

 

4th Of July, AmVic Style!

Celebrate the 4th of July in Tampa Bay in a new an unique way, aboard the S.S. American Victory ship. There will be beer, wine, food, music and lots of fun, not to mention a perfect view of the fireworks Monday night!

Tampa Red White & Blue Fest

A family-friendly event taking place in Channelside, Sunday, July 3rd.  The Tampa Red White & Blue Fest celebrates the 4th of July in Tampa Bay with the biggest and best fireworks display seen for miles!

 

Tampa FL , 33602. Phone 8134478538

July 4th Festivities at Gaspar's Grotto Include Fundraising for Shriners Hospitals for Children

Ring the World’s Largest Tip Bell for a Good Cause & Participate in this Record-Breaking Event July 4 at Gaspar’s Grotto where all contributions will benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Tampa FL , 33605. Phone 813-248-5900

Yacht Starship Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise

Celebrate the stars and stripes on the water with a spectacular 4th of July fireworks cruises!

Tampa FL , 33602. Phone 813-223-7999

4th of July Fireworks Event at The Florida Aquarium

See dazzling displays in the sky reflected on the water this 4th of July at The Florida Aquarium! There will be fun, family-friendly entertainment and all- American red, white and blue dinner options too!  Let the kids play in the Splash Pool, and enjoy the fireworks as The Florida Aquarium extends it's hors for the big show!

Tampa FL , 33602. Phone 813-273-4000

4th of July 2016 at the History Center

The History Center is celebrating Independence Day by offering $5 admission on the 4th of July. See costumed re-enactors representing several eras of American military history at the History Center. Grab a drink a the Columbia Cafe and toss a blanket on the lawn later to see the fireworks at Channelside. Make this 4th of July a Downtown Tampa event for you, your family and friends! 

Tampa FL , 33602. Phone 813-228-0097

Whatever you decide to do, make the day special, take advantage of the wonderful place we live, there are so many things to do and people to meet in our beautiful hometown---Tampa Bay.  If you know of anything we overlooked in 4th of July Fireworks and Parade Guide 2016 | Tampa Bay, please let us know in comments below.  We look forward to seeing you at the show as we thrill to the sound of the cannons plunging fireballs into the dark, the sound echoing from paned glass towers as brilliance shatters the darkness.

Looking for places to watch the 4th of July Fireworks in Pinellas County? You will enjoy reading:

Best Places To Watch Fireworks | Tampa Bay 2016