As the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Florida’s oldest city is inviting visitors to celebrate the occasion where nearly five centuries of history converge.
To celebrate America 250, St. Augustine will host a series of patriotic events throughout July, blending historical tribute with modern-day festivities. the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau underscored that the uniqueness of celebrating Independence Day in a city that touts almost 500 years of history.
July 3 fireworks over the Castillo de San Marcos
On July 3, the National Park Service and the St. Augustine Music Festival will host an outdoor music festival on grounds of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument from 1 to 4 p.m.
The city’s signature event, Fireworks Over the Matanzas will feature an incredible array of fireworks – choregraphed to patriotic music – above the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument beginning at 9 p.m. on July 4.
The All-Star Orchestra will precede the fireworks display from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Plaza de la Constitución. Performances will include Big Band favorites and popular tunes with a “patriotic flair.”
Residents and guests are encouraged to enjoy the fireworks from many of the city’s cruises and boat excursions.
The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument will be offering free admission from July 3-5.
The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is offering a discount on admission on July 4. On July 8, the museum will participate in a nationwide simultaneous reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Birth of American free walking tour
For those interested in Revolutionary War history, the St. Augustine and the Birth of America free walking tour will be available every Saturday in July beginning at 6 p.m.
According to the Susan Phillips, president and CEO of the VCB, the guided tour explores the city’s connections to the American Revolution, including East Florida’s loyalty to the British crown and the stories of imprisoned signers of the Declaration of Independence.
The AC Hotel St. Augustine’s will host a July 4 cookout featuring a classic summer fare and not to mention, lovely waterfront views and Old Coast Pickleball will host its “Red, White & Dink” event July 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. at 76 Dockside Drive, Unit 108.
Throughout July
The Lightner Museum, Villa Zorayda Museum, Peña-Peck House Museum & Cultural Center, and St. Augustine Art Association will also feature special exhibits and programs honoring America’s 250th anniversary.
“This year, visitors can experience everything from patriotic concerts and fireworks to historic tours and special America 250 programs, all in the Nation’s Oldest City,” Phillips said. “With its blend of heritage, entertainment and Americana, St. Augustine’s 250th Independence Day celebration promises a memorable experience in one of the country’s most historic settings.
Best places to watch the July 3 fireworks in St. Augustine
Visitors can enjoy excellent views of the fireworks from several locations throughout historic downtown, including:
The VCB is suggesting that attendees arrive early enough to secure a viewing spot, “as thousands gather along the waterfront for this annual tradition.”
Free park and ride shuttle for July 3 fireworks
Old Town Trolley Tours will offer free shuttle service with satellite parking on Anastasia Island from 6 p.m. to midnight.
Parking locations include:
The shuttle will drop off and pick up passengers at Flagler Boulevard at Gerado Street.
Parking for July 3 fireworks
Street closures
Cathedral Place will be closed to vehicular traffic from Avenida Menendez to Cordova Street beginning at 4 p.m. on July 3.
Other closures on July 3 include:
The Bridge of Lions will be closed to marine traffic from 8 to 11 pm. Vessels will be prohibited in the mooring area north of the Bridge of Lions, west and north of Channel Marker 7 to Shenandoah Street. Marine law enforcement will be patrolling the Matanzas Bay.
The St. Augustine Municipal Marina will limit dockage space for July 4. Contact the marina directly on VHF CH 16 or CH 71 for availability and docking instructions.
Traffic flow after the fireworks
Traffic from Lincolnville going west on King and through Malaga Street will be directed south only on U.S. 1. Right-hand turns will be allowed onto U.S. 1.
Traffic from the parking garage westbound on West Castillo and westbound through downtown will be directed north only on U.S. 1. Left-hand turns will not be allowed on U.S. 1.
Traffic flowing south on Avenida Menendez and from Lincolnville east of St. George Street will be directed east across the Bridge of Lions. There will be no westbound traffic around the Plaza de la Constitución.
Modifications to the road closures may be made at any time at the discretion of the St. Augustine Police Department without advance notice to ensure public safety.
Cancellation Notification
If the fireworks are canceled, the public will be notified on the following City of St. Augustine and St. Augustine Police Department digital channels: City of St. Augustine website, City of St. Augustine Facebook page, St. Augustine Police Department Facebook page, City of St. Augustine on X, St. Augustine Police Department on X.
This article originally appeared on St. Augustine Record: Your guide to July 4 and America 250 events in St. Augustine
Reporting by Lucia Viti, St. Augustine Record / St. Augustine Record
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Lucia Viti, St. Augustine Record | USA TODAY Network
