Wekiva Island to celebrate America with Red, White & Blue Semiquincentennial Ball on July 2

Looking for a unique Fourth of July celebration in Orlando? Join Wekiva Island for an unforgettable evening on the river.

Dust off your stars and stripes and get ready to celebrate 250 years of the USA. 

Ahead of this Fourth of July, Wekiva Island is rolling out the red, white and blue carpet for its Semiquincentennial Ball. The Seminole County business will celebrate from 6 to 10 pm on Thursday, July 2, inviting guests to dress in their patriotic best and spend the evening enjoying live music, gourmet hot dogs, patriotic prizes, and local hero recognition.

The event will feature:

Sounds of America live music by The Southbound Trio

Gourmet hot dogs by Without a Paddle Cafe

A patriotic outfit contest

Budweiser drink specials & complimentary swag

Local Heroes community recognition campaign

Veteran and Active Military Appreciation Program

The opening reception for Gallery CERO’s, An American Tapestry exhibition

“We wanted to honor our nation’s history, but we wanted to do it our own way,” said Carrie Vanderhoef, manager of Wekiva Island. “This event is fun and felt very us. We are excited to honor our veterans and showcase Americana and local history at Gallery CERO.”

As part of the festivities, the first 100 veterans and active military who attend the July 2 event can pick up a voucher for a complimentary weekday canoe, kayak or paddleboard rental valid through the end of 2026.

The Island is also accepting nominations for the Local Heroes Campaign. As part of the campaign, the community can submit stories and photos of deserving veterans and active service members on social media. One honoree will be selected to receive a special Island Appreciation Prize featuring a complimentary cabana rental, food from Without a Paddle Cafe, two kayak rentals, and more.

During the July 2 event, Gallery CERO will also open its latest exhibition, An American Tapestry. The show features an immersive installation by artist and set designer Janas Smith Durkee that draws on classic Americana and 1950s nostalgia. It also incorporates Wekiva history and historical articles, original paintings and works, and more. All aim to pull in the threads that have shaped the American experience across generations, placing the local within the narrative.

The exhibition opening will run from 5 to 10 p.m.

All events are open to the public and do not require a ticket.

For more information, visit https://wekivaisland.com/event/fourth-of-july-orlando-celebration/.

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