From small-town parades to beachside fireworks and community celebrations under the stars, July on the Forgotten Coast is packed with coastal charm and patriotic spirit. Whether you’re lacing up for a 5K, cruising in a decked-out golf cart, or simply spreading out a blanket to watch fireworks light up the sky, there’s something for everyone this month.
Celebrate Independence Day in style with festive events across Eastpoint, Apalachicola, Mexico Beach, Port St. Joe, St. George Island, Carrabelle, and WindMark Beach—plus enjoy unique happenings like beach cleanups, fishing tournaments, and movie nights later in the month. Here’s your guide to all the can’t-miss events happening this July on the Forgotten Coast!
FEATURED EVENTS
4th Annual Eastpoint Freedom Festival
Eastpoint
July 1st, 2025
Celebrate along Highway 98 at the annual Eastpoint Freedom Festival, featuring local festivities and a stunning fireworks display over the bay once the sun goes down!
Sandy Shoes 5K Fun Run
Under the Palms Park | Mexico Beach
July 4th, 2025
Start your 2025 Independence Day with a burst of energy at the Sandy Shoes 5K Fun Run! Held at the scenic Under the Palms Park, this family-friendly event is the perfect way to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and kick off a memorable 4th of July celebration. Whether you’re an experienced runner or just looking for a fun way to be active, this easygoing course is designed for participants of all ages and fitness levels. With water stations along the route to keep you hydrated, you’ll feel supported every step of the way.
July 3rd Waterfront Celebration
Riverfront Park | Apalachicola
July 3rd, 2025
Enjoy an afternoon of live music, local eats, and community fun at Riverfront Park, featuring food vendors—many supporting local causes. The day wraps up with a spectacular fireworks show over the river!
4th of July Fireworks Celebration
Captain Fred’s Place | Port St. Joe
July 4th, 2025
Gulf County TDC and the City of Port St. Joe present a stunning fireworks show, viewable from downtown and George Core Park. A festive finale to Fourth of July celebrations on the coast!
4th of July Party in the Park
George Core Park | Port St. Joe
July 4th, 2025
Stars, Stripes, and Good Vibes in George Core Park! Bring your patriotic spirit to the 4th of July Party in the Park – live music all day, games, food, and our very first boat show! And don’t miss out on Dockside Village’s Grand Opening!
Best Blast on the Beach Fireworks Show
Mexico Beach
July 4th, 2025
Happy Birthday, America! Join us in Mexico Beach for an unforgettable 4th of July Firework Show, lighting up the night sky in true patriotic style. The Mexico Beach Best Blast on the Beach is a spectacular display that you will not want to miss. The show begins at 8:30pm, and you’ll have a perfect view from any spot along our pristine beaches. Get ready to be dazzled by vibrant bursts of color and light, creating a celebration you won’t want to miss.
St. George Island Independence Day Festivities
Blue Parrot Oceanfront Cafe | SGI
July 4th, 2025
Celebrate Independence Day with beachside festivities and fireworks behind the Blue Parrot Oceanfront Café. A laid-back tradition open to all—stay all day and enjoy the fun!
WindMark Beach 4th of July Golf Cart Parade
The Green | Windmark Beach
July 4th, 2025
Celebrate Independence Day in true coastal style at WindMark Beach’s 4th of July Golf Cart Parade! Deck out your cart in red, white, and blue, and cruise through the community with patriotic pride.
Carrabelle Fireworks
Carabelle Waterfront | Carabelle
July 5th, 2025
Carrabelle will host its annual fireworks extravaganza on Saturday, July 5, along the Carrabelle Waterfront at dark-thirty.
Beach Cleanup – St. Joe Beach
Veterans Memorial Park | St. Joe Beach
July 19th, 2025
Join us at St. Joe Beach for a morning of community, conservation, and a little friendly competition. Whether you’re a local or just love visiting the area, everyone’s welcome. Park at Veterans Memorial Park and head to the beach access right in front of the park. Our tent will be at the entrance of the beach access, so stop by to check in and grab everything you need to get started!
MBARA Kingfish Tournament
Mexico Beach Boat Ramp | Mexico Beach
July 25th-26th, 2025
Get your gear ready—it’s time to fish! The Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association (MBARA) is excited to host the 29th Annual Kingfish Tournament, the Gulf Coast’s premier fishing event. Mark your calendars for this unforgettable weekend, all activity will take place at the Mexico Beach Boat Ramp Park. This tournament is MBARA’s largest fundraising event, with proceeds directly supporting the construction and deployment of new artificial reefs off the coast of Mexico Beach.
WindMark Beach Movie Night: Wicked
Windmark Beach Village Center | Windmark Beach
July 26th, 2025
Join us for a FREE Movie Night under the stars at WindMark Beach as we defy gravity and dive into the untold story of the witches of Oz! Grab your blankets and lawn chairs for a magical evening featuring Wicked—the beloved musical brought to the big screen. Follow the journey of Elphaba, the misunderstood girl with emerald-green skin, and Glinda, the bubbly popular girl with a wand and a plan. Their unlikely friendship at Shiz University takes a dramatic turn after a life-changing encounter with the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.