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Best Fourth of July Activities around Destin, Florida

The Fourth of July is an exciting time to visit Florida’s Emerald Coast. The days are filled with fun in the sun, while the night sky lights up at night with fireworks. South Walton and Destin have many great events to help you have the perfect Independence Day celebration. Here is a list of 2024 events and fireworks displays to help you plan your 4th of July celebration in and around Destin, Florida.

 

Fourth of July Eve 

July 3 - Boomin’ Tuesday at Baytowne Wharf — 7:30 p.m.

The Village of Baytowne Wharf is gearing up for a festive Fourth of July celebration with its annual Red, White, and Baytowne event. On the evening of July 4th, the Events Plaza Stage will come alive with live music from 7:00 to 9:15 PM, creating the perfect backdrop for a summer night out. As the music winds down, the sky will light up with a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9:15 PM, offering a colorful finale over the lagoon.

Families can expect a lively atmosphere throughout the village, with kid-friendly activities like craft stations, face painting, and balloon art adding to the holiday fun. It’s a celebration that blends coastal charm with patriotic spirit, all in one of Destin’s most scenic settings. Location: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach, FL 

 

July 3 – Star Spangled Food Truck Festival — 5:00–9:30 p.m.

The annual Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival is rolling into Destin Commons, bringing with it a flavorful celebration for all ages. This summer event will spotlight a fleet of local food trucks, each offering a range of culinary delights—from savory Thai dishes to gourmet grilled cheese and an array of inventive street eats. As festivalgoers stroll through the Commons, they’ll be treated not only to mouthwatering bites but also to live performances from Duchess and the Tobacco Road Band. The evening’s grand finale promises to light up the night sky with one of the Emerald Coast’s most dazzling fireworks displays. More event details can be found here. Address: 4100 Legendary Dr., Destin, FL 32541

 

Fourth of July 

July 4 – AJ’s Grayton Beach 4th of July Celebration – 8:00 a.m. 

Every summer, AJ’s Grayton kicks off Independence Day with a vibrant celebration in the heart of town. The annual July 4th parade brings out locals and visitors alike for a morning full of energy and patriotic flair. The day starts early with AJ’s Grayton Bar opening at 8 a.m., where guests can get refreshing drinks, AJ’s branded gear, and complimentary American flags for parade-goers. The event officially begins at 8:30 a.m. at the iconic Red Bar and winds its way through Grayton’s charming streets. From morning until night, live music fills the air.. With great food, nonstop entertainment, and a welcoming community spirit, it's a celebration that perfectly captures the laid-back charm of the Gulf Coast and an amazing way to celebrate Independence Day. Location: AJ’s Grayton Beach, 63 Defuniak Street, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 

 

July 4 - Seaside’s Fireworks Spectacular - 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Seaside’s 2025 Fourth of July festivities promise a full day of celebration in the heart of Central Square. The morning kicks off at 9:00 a.m. with a lively block party that includes live performances, a bike decorating contest, and the crowd-favorite hot dog eating competition. As the day winds down, the Sinfonia Gulf Coast Pop Concert takes the stage at 7:00 p.m., setting the tone for a festive evening. The celebration concludes with a breathtaking fireworks show over the Gulf at 8:30 p.m., lighting up the sky in true holiday fashion. Location: Central Square, Seaside — 2235 E County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

 

July 4 – Red, White and Baytowne – 7:00 p.m.-9:15 p.m.

Baytowne Wharf is the place to be this Fourth of July, offering a festive evening packed with family-friendly fun. From lawn games and inflatables to kids’ crafts, face painting, and live entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The celebration kicks off with live music by Below Alabama at 7:00 p.m., leading up to a spectacular fireworks display at 9:15 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, and guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs for a comfortable spot on the lawn. Location: 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Miramar Beach, FL 

 

July 4 – Destin Harbor/Harbor Walk Village 4th of July celebration- 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. 

Celebrate Independence Day in style at HarborWalk Village in Destin on July 4, 2025! The evening kicks off at 6:00 p.m. with live performances by local favorites like Vintage Fly Over and Manly Hero Band, setting the tone for a festive night. As the clock strikes 9:00 p.m., the sky over Destin Harbor will light up with a spectacular fireworks show, accompanied by a thrilling fire-spinning performance. With waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and family-friendly fun all around, it’s the perfect place to spend the Fourth. Location: HarborWalk Village, 10 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541

 

July 4 - City of Destin Fireworks- 9:00 p.m.

Celebrate Independence Day in Destin with a spectacular fireworks display over East Pass, starting at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th. The show is enhanced by a synchronized music broadcast on Z96 (96.5 FM), creating an immersive experience whether you're on land or water. Great vantage points include HarborWalk Village, the beaches along Gulf Shore Drive, nearby harborfront restaurants, and boats anchored in the harbor for the evening. Location: East Pass, Destin, FL 32541

 

July 4 – Fireworks on Navarre Beach 9:00 – 9:30 p.m.

Wrap up your Fourth of July festivities with a stunning fireworks display at the Navarre Beach Fishing Pier. Make your way to the shoreline for a front-row view as vibrant bursts of color light up the night sky over the Gulf. Location: 8579 Gulf Blvd, Navarre, FL 32566

 

July 4 – Solaris Fireworks Dinner Cruise – 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. 

Set sail this Fourth of July for an unforgettable celebration aboard the SOLARIS Dinner Cruise in Destin. Enjoy a 3.5-hour evening of sunset views, live music, and a chef-prepared three-course meal featuring coastal favorites like Gulf shrimp and grits, braised boneless short rib, and Creole chicken. As the night unfolds, head to the open-air Sky Deck for a front-row seat to the Sandestin fireworks show, complete with a sparkling toast. Want the best view? Upgrade to a window table for a premium experience.

 

More Fireworks - July 5th

Light up your midweek plans with the Okaloosa Island Fireworks Summer Series! Every Wednesday through early August, head to The Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island for an evening of family fun and fireworks. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, settle in on the sand or boardwalk, and enjoy the show as the sky bursts into color at 9:00 p.m. Location: The Boardwalk, 1450 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548

 

What's Next?

Can’t make it to Destin this Fourth of July? It’s never too early to plan your next beach escape. Explore our curated selection of top-tier Destin vacation rentals online, or give our friendly vacation specialists a call at 1-800-225-7652 to start planning your stay.

See you @ the beach!

*Updated 6/20/25  

Published on Tuesday, July 2, 2019