As many locals will tell you, there’s no better place than St. Augustine when it comes to Fourth of July celebrations.
You’ll probably want to visit for the fireworks display, community events, or the All-Star Orchestra free outdoor concert, but you’ll want to stay for the warm weather, locale and charm!
Check out the following events to get the most out of your upcoming Fourth of July St. Augustine vacation.
Evening: Fireworks and Concert
It wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without the excitement and flare of a fireworks show, and St. Augustine puts on a display like no other. The annual fireworks show is the town’s biggest event of the year, attracting more people to the historic downtown than any other event or holiday.
The show begins at 9:30 p.m. and lasts about 20 minutes. The best view in town is between the Castillo and the Bridge of Lions along the bayfront. Sit back, breathe in the fresh ocean air and watch the fireworks light up the sky with their reflection dancing on the water.
The spectacular display is choreographed to some of our country’s greatest hits, which play through an extensive sound system along the bayfront area and can be heard from the Fort to the bridge. The fireworks can be seen from afar, but it’s still recommended you arrive early to get a good seat and enjoy all the show has to offer.
Arriving early is easy when there are so many other things to see and do in St. Augustine. Prior to the fireworks display, the All Star Orchestra puts on a fantastic show at the Plaza de la Constitución.
Bring a chair, blanket or enjoy standing around the Gazebo listening to the free, big band sound of the orchestra, playing patriotic music along with swing and big band classics. The show begins at 6:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
Your Day in Town
Get the most out of your trip and enjoy St. Augustine all day. See what you’ll discover while exploring antique stores, locally-owned shops and restaurants in the historic downtown. St. Augustine is the oldest town in the United States, and has a deep vibrant history to explore!
Check out any number of the town’s museums. Be sure to check museum hours before you go, as some businesses may offer alternative holiday hours. Sign up for a walking tour or take a ride on the trolley if you’d like to enjoy the great weather while seeing this historic town.
Logistics: Parking Tips and Safety
Founded way back in 1565, St. Augustine wasn’t designed to handle lines of automobile traffic. The St. Augustine Police Department has specially designed traffic plans for high-yield events like this. Please have patience as traffic enters and leaves town. Biking is a good alternative way to navigate St. Augustine. If you bring your bicycle, remember to bring a lock and secure it appropriately, and follow rules of the road to ensure everyone’s safety.
All city-owned parking lots and on-street parking is free on the Fourth of July, as it is on all national holidays. The largest concentration of these free spots is behind the Lightner Building on Granada Street.
A paid parking option is available at the Historic Downtown Parking Facility at the Visitors Information Center for $12 a car, or $3 a car if you have a Park Now card. Parking will not be available at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument from 6:00 p.m. until approximately 11:00 p.m.
Traffic will be rerouted beginning at 8:30 p.m., and it includes the closing of South Castillo Drive, Avenida Menendez and the Bridge of Lions to all vehicular traffic to leave enough safe space for the pedestrians.
Give your undivided attention to the road as there will be heavy pedestrian traffic and many children that may be excited and forget to check for cars before crossing roads. The safety of our guests is our top priority!
Have fun, drink responsibly and enjoy the Fourth on St. Augustine!
Normally a quiet and peaceful old historic town, St. Augustine’s will be booming on the Fourth of July when it’s illuminated with more than 5,000 fireworks. Remember to leave dogs that are sensitive to loud noises at home, and leave the fireworks to the professionals. Possession of fireworks that lift off the ground or explode is illegal.
Please also remember to leave your alcohol at home. You’re free to drink at the restaurants and bars, but open alcohol containers on public property, including streets, sidewalks and parks is prohibited. Laws are strictly enforced to ensure everyone has a safe and fun time.
With talented live musicians, world-class fireworks, a huge range of incredible restaurants, amazing ocean scenery and plentiful family attractions, we have everything you’re looking for this Fourth of July! We’ll see you in St. Augustine!
