The excitement of Independence Day beckons southwest Floridians to join the community in celebration of the Fourth of July. There’s sure to be something on our list of top July 4, 2022 events across the region, from fireworks and festivals to boat rides and parades. Check out these Fourth of July festivities in Southwest Florida, and make a note on the calendar to be on top of your game for the holiday weekend!

Where to Watch Fireworks in Southwest Florida

There are quite a few remarkable places to watch fireworks in Southwest Florida, from piers and parks to boating excursions. Here are some prime viewing points beloved by locals and visitors alike.

4th of July Fireworks at Naples Pier

Naples Pier in the city of Naples will be ablaze with a massive fireworks show on July 4 at 9 p.m. The pier closes to traffic at 6:30 p.m., so arrange to be in the area and access viewing points before the shutdown. Parking is minimal and is allowed in only designated areas.

  • Location: Naples Pier, Naples, FL 34102
  • Time: 9 p.m.
  • Phone: 239-213-7120
  • Admission: Free

Red, White & Boom

The 2022 Red, White, & Boom in the city of Cape Coral will be a stellar event. As one of the largest fireworks shows in Florida, the festivities occur at the foot of Cape Coral Bridge on Cape Coral Parkway. This single-day event starts at 10 a.m. with various entertainment and attractions that wrap up after dark post the fireworks show. Live music, food, and fun will reign all day, and access to the event is free.

However, tickets are available that include perks in the Boom Zone. Those ages 13 or older must have an adult ticket for $35 to access the Boom Zone, while 12 and under can buy a child’s ticket for $25. The cost of tickets includes:

  • BBQ meal
  • Two adult beverages or non-alcoholic drinks
  • Access to the game area
  • Limited bleacher seating
  • Prime viewing section for the fireworks
  • Air-conditioned restrooms

No outside alcohol, fireworks, or pets are allowed at this event.

Pure Florida Independence Day Fireworks Cruise

Imagine watching the glorious sunset over the ocean while having dinner and drinks and then sitting back on the dock of a charter vessel to take in the sights and sounds of the fireworks show at the Naples Pier. Make it happen with a reservation on a cruise for the Fourth of July with Pure Florida’s Independence Day Fireworks Cruise.

Passengers will be treated to a lively celebration and can make personal meal requests and order drinks from the cash bar. The company has multiple vessels that groups can book who want to experience a private charter.

  • Location: 1200 5th Ave S Ste 501, Naples, FL 34102
  • Phone: 239-263-4949
  • Tickets: $145 per person

Fort Myers Beach Fourth of July Fireworks Show

There will be events, games, and vendors at Fort Myers Beach throughout the day until 9 p.m. when the fireworks show lights up the night. Bring a beach chair or a large towel and sit back to enjoy the festivities. Parking is paid only around the event, but the free Beach Trolley is an excellent alternative to driving.

4th Fest 2022

4th Fest 2022 will be held at Laishley Park in the Punta Gorda community on Sunday, July 3. This festival is charged with energy and will feature Water-Mania, a group of 12 enormous waterslides that attendees can enjoy all day with a $10 wristband. In addition to the slides, there will be a massive Kid’s Fun Zone to keep youngsters engaged and entertained.

Several vendors, displays, and unique shopping booths will be set up for attendees to visit. There will be plenty of festival food, cold beer, and tasty beverages to keep everyone cool and satiated while they listen to live music throughout the day. Event organizers promise that this year’s fireworks display will be the biggest in the event’s history. The action kicks off at 9 p.m. over the Peace River.

  • Address: Laishley Park, 150 Laishley Ct., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
  • Date: July 3, 2022
  • Time: Gates are open from 1 to 10 p.m.
  • Tickets: $5 per person; $10 per wristband

Other Southwest Florida Fourth of July Events

While fireworks are a clear highlight of July 4th events, there are other festivals and events to consider attending before nightfall. Here are some popular events to get the day started with a bang!

Naples 4th of July Parade

The Naples 4th of July Parade begins marching down Broad Avenue to Third Street at 10 a.m. sharp. The route proceeds north on 5th Avenue South before heading east on 5th Avenue South and past City Hall. Street vendors will offer snacks, drinks, and souvenirs noting the occasion.

  • Location: Downtown Naples, FL
  • Phone: 239-213-1000
  • Cost: Free

Freedom 5K

The Freedom 5K in Cape Coral has dedicated races and awards for each age group and skill level, so the running ‘field’ is leveled out evenly. There will be a special Challenge Coin Ceremony for Veterans before awards are handed out. Participants will receive a goodie bag with a commemorative T-shirt, raffle tickets, and discount coupons.

  • Location: 2051 Cape Coral Parkway E, Cape Coral, FL 33904
  • Date: July 4, 2022
  • Time: 7 a.m.
  • Phone: 239-213-7120

USA Independence Day 5K

Hertz Arena in the village of Estero hosts the Independence Day 5K morning run and walk at the Cape Coral Bridge on July 4, 2022. This 5K is professionally chip-timed, and those in the race will get a free T-shirt, finish photos, a video, and other goodies for their efforts. Spectators can keep track of their favorite runners with the Elite Events Tracker App.

  • Address: 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero, FL 33928
  • Phone: (239) 948-7825
  • Cost: $39–$48

Fort Myers Beach Independence Day Parade

The Fort Myers Beach Fourth of July Parade starts off early and will feature colorful floats, marching bands, local dignitaries, and costumed participants. The parade begins at the Bay Oak Recreation Center around 10 a.m. and takes a route to Times Square. Stick around to participate in activities and for the fireworks show in the evening.

  • Location: Times Square Fort Myers Beach, 1021 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931
  • Phone: 239-454-7500
  • Cost: Free

Celebrate America Concert

The Celebrate America Concert is a part of Freedom Fest 2022, and two impressive music acts will take the stage this year. Up first is 10-year-old Champ Jackson, a Florida-based singer crooning since age three. Since he started, he’s appeared in dozens of paid performances throughout the region, including the Big Orange Music Festival.

The Boogiemen Rock n Soul Revue takes the stage on July 3 at 7:30 p.m. Headed by frontman Mike Riley, the band now has 10 members. It is best known as a rock and soul orchestra with various sounds and instrumentalists for a one-of-a-kind experience.

About the Author:

Marcus Larrea is a Southwest Florida native with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Florida Gulf Coast University and an M.B.A. from the University of Florida. He is an entrepreneur, coach, and team leader of the professional concierge real estate service, Palm Paradise Real Estate.