Celebrate the 4th of July on Tampa Riverwalk with celebrations at Armature Works, Sparkman Wharf, and a Boat Parade!

Tampa Bay is gearing up to host a star spangled 4th of July Celebration, with red, white and blue festivities taking place along the Tampa Riverwalk.

This year celebrate the 4th of July along the Tampa Riverwalk!

Boom by the Bay will feature The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works, Star Spangled Sparkman Wharf, a waterski show, the Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River, and spectacular fireworks to close out the celebrations.

Unlike previous years, there will be no fireworks or activities in Julian B. Lane Park this year, with the city encouraging Tampa residents and visitors to enjoy the many family-friendly festivities along the Riverwalk.

The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works will feature a large-scale riverfront concert, hot dog eating competition, kids zone, and family-friendly fun all day long, and a great spot to watch the Friends of the Riverwalk Boat Parade, and the spectacular fireworks.

The celebration kicks off at 3 pm and will go until 10 pm, but come early to enjoy the bounce houses starting at noon!

For details on The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Work: CLICK HERE.

Celebrate Independence Day Sparkman-style at Star Spangled Sparkman, a waterfront tradition bursting with energy, entertainment, and unbeatable views.

The fun kicks off at 5.30 pm, enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, face painting, and festive food and drink specials from your favorite spots at the Wharf.

Watch the awesome waterski show and the Friends of the Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade, and closeout the evening with a fireworks finale that lights up the downtown Tampa waterfront.

The event is free and open to the public, but space fills up fast, so come early and stake out your spot.

For details on Star Spangled Sparkman: CLICK HERE.

Celebrate July 4th with Friends of the Riverwalk as the City of Tampa host a July 4th Boat Parade, Water Ski Show, Blessing of the Fleet, and fireworks!

This year’s July 4th Boat Parade theme is A SALUTE TO SERVICE. Join the city and celebrate our military heroes with a patriotic display on the water!

For more details: https://www.tampa.gov/events/july-4th-boat-parade/168876.

The Boat Parade begins in the Convention Center basin, travels to the Heights, and ends at Sparkman Wharf. 

Public viewing locations include: 

• Armature Works

• Channel Drive

• Convention Center

• Curtis Hixon

• Davis Island

• Harbour Island

• Sparkman Wharf

• Water Works Park

The parade route is similar to the Holiday Light Boat Parade but will include a Water Ski Show to kick off the celebration and a blessing station.

Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for the most patriotic boat!

The Blessing of the Fleet which will take place during the boat parade is a tradition that began centuries ago in Mediterranean fishing communities.

The practice began predominantly Catholic but is now practiced by all denominations as a blessing from the local clergy that is meant to ensure a safe and bountiful season. 

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