July on the Forgotten Coast is where small-town charm, waterfront traditions, and patriotic spirit shine brightest. From festive parades and fireworks over the bay to fishing tournaments and community celebrations, this stretch of coastline offers a laid-back yet unforgettable summer experience filled with local character, coastal beauty, and classic Fourth of July fun.
FEATURED EVENTS
Eastpoint Freedom Festival
July 1st
Patton Street Boat Ramp | Eastpoint
Celebrate Independence Day bayside at the Eastpoint Freedom Festival. Beginning around 6 p.m. at the Patton Street Boat Ramp, the festival features live music, local food trucks, family-friendly fun, and a laid-back community atmosphere along the waterfront. As the evening winds down, gather along the Bay for a fireworks display.
Carrabelle Fireworks & Golf Cart Parade
July 2nd
Carrabelle | Carrabelle, FL
Kick off the celebration in Carrabelle with the community’s annual Independence Day festivities and fireworks display along the beautiful Carrabelle River. Arrive early to browse the town’s unique shops, enjoy dinner at one of Carrabelle’s locally owned restaurants, and discover the charm of this historic fishing community before the evening’s festivities begin.
Don’t miss the beloved Golf Cart Parade. Bring your decorated golf cart, bicycle, wagon, skateboard, or simply walk along in your red, white, and blue. Parade participants should line up at 6:00 p.m. at Sands Park before making their way through downtown Carrabelle in a festive community procession.
After the parade, gather along the waterfront for an evening fireworks show over the Carrabelle River, a family-friendly tradition that lights up the night and celebrates Independence Day on Florida’s Forgotten Coast.
Apalachicola Waterfront July 3rd Celebration
July 3
Apalachicola Riverfront | Apalachicola
Historic Apalachicola comes alive with patriotic spirit during its annual Waterfront July 3rd Celebration at Riverfront Park. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly fun beginning at 5 p.m., then join the beloved Red, White & Blue Parade. Bring your decorated golf cart, bicycle, wagon, skateboard, or simply walk along in your red, white, and blue. Parade participants should line up at 6:00 p.m. at Lafayette Park, with the parade stepping off at 6:30 p.m. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over the Apalachicola River.
St. George Island Independence Day Festivities
July 4th
St. George Island
The legendary SGI Wet ‘N Wild Parade returns for one of the most unique Independence Day traditions on the coast. Decorate your golf cart, float, bike, vehicle, or walking group and prepare for a patriotic water fight unlike any other. Participants should line up at 10:30 a.m. at West Gorrie Drive and 7th Street, with the parade beginning at 11:00 a.m. Expect plenty of water, lots of laughter, and small-town Fourth of July fun before ending the day with fireworks over the Gulf.
Sandy Shoes 5k Fun Run
July 4th
Under the Palms Park
Start independence day with a burst of energy at the Sandy Shoes 5k run!
MBARA Kingfish Tournament
July 23rd – 25th
Mexico Beach Boat Ramp | Mexico Beach
This is Mexico Beach’s oldest fishing tournament and MBARA ‘s biggest fundraiser to deploy more reefs in the gulf!