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Fireworks, festivities, and fun in the sun—Fort Lauderdale is the place to be for the Fourth of July. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or staying a little longer, there’s no shortage of things to do. From beachside fireworks to lively bar crawls, you’ll find events for every kind of celebration.

Here’s your guide to spending the Fourth of July in Fort Lauderdale—plus why Yacht Haven Park & Marina is the perfect place to stay.

 

Fourth of July Events in Fort Lauderdale

Here’s a look at the big events in and around Fort Lauderdale. Keep in mind that this isn’t an exhaustive list. Many local communities have their own events to be on the lookout for.

 

Fort Lauderdale’s 4th of July Spectacular

Where: Las Olas Oceanside Park & Fort Lauderdale Beach
When: Noon – 9:15 PM

 

This free, family-friendly celebration is one of the biggest in the area. Expect live music, a kid zone with inflatables and face painting, beach games, and plenty of food trucks. When the sun goes down, stick around for a stunning fireworks show right over the ocean. Learn more about this event here.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea July 4 Celebration

Where: Parade begins behind Town Hall and runs south down El Mar Drive; Family Fun Day festivities are held in El Prado Park
When: All-day festivities starting at 10:00 AM

 

If you’re looking for a small-town feel by the sea, head to Lauderdale-by-the-Sea for their patriotic celebration. It kicks off with a hometown-style parade in the morning, followed by live music, family games, and a beachfront fireworks show at night.

Downtown Fort Lauderdale 4th of July Bar Crawl

Where: Starts at Booze Garden, 111-A Southwest 2nd Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

When: Starts at 6:00 PM

 

This one’s for the grown-ups. Hop between some of downtown’s most popular bars with exclusive drink specials and a festive crowd. Tickets include access to multiple venues, patriotic accessories, and a professional photographer capturing it all. Be sure to arrange safe transportation back to the resort!

 

You can purchase tickets online to the bar crawl here.

Other Fort Lauderdale Fourth of July Activities

Rather skip out on the largest crowds and go your own way? There’s plenty of ways to pack in fun in Fort Lauderdale over the festive weekend.

1. Hit the beach.

Fourth of July is prime time for beach lounging. Grab your towel, cooler, and sunscreen and head to an area beach that isn’t sectioned off for activities. The warm Atlantic waters and sunny skies make for a perfect summer day.

2. Cruise the canals.

Book a boat tour, rent a pontoon from Yacht Haven, or hop on the water taxi to explore the city’s scenic canals and waterfront homes. It’s a peaceful and fun way to see a different side of Fort Lauderdale.

And, you’re lucky enough to be on a boat by late evening, you might catch a fireworks show from the water. It’s a one-of-a-kind view with the city lights and ocean breeze.

3. Grill out at your site.

Nothing says Fourth of July like a backyard barbecue. Fire up the grill at your RV site, cook up some burgers and hot dogs, and enjoy a meal with your group and neighbors. With space to spread out and palm trees swaying overhead, it’s your own private cookout paradise.

4. Explore Las Olas Boulevard.

Wander this lively strip of shops, bars, and restaurants. You’ll find live music, boutique shopping, cold drinks, and great people-watching—especially around the holiday.

5. Cool off in the pool.

The Florida sun can be strong in July, so a dip in a resort-style pool is the perfect mid-day refresher. Lounge in a chair with a cold drink or join other guests for some relaxed poolside fun.

6. Visit the Everglades.

Take a break from the buzz with a day trip to Everglades Holiday Park or another nearby nature reserve. Airboat rides, gator shows, and quiet trails offer a totally different kind of adventure.

7. Treat yourself to ice cream

What’s more American than cooling off with a cone from one of the area’s beloved ice cream spots. Local favorites like Wilton Creamery and Chill-N are perfect for a sweet treat after a long day in the sun.

 

Where to Stay for Fort Lauderdale Fourth of July

When you stay at Yacht Haven Park & Marina, you’re never far from the action—but you’ll have a peaceful place to recharge at the end of the day.

Our luxury RV resort offers waterfront views, oversized sites, a heated pool, boat rentals, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for summer holidays. Prefer to keep things low-key? Spend your Fourth grilling out, taking a dip, or simply relaxing under the palm trees.

No matter how you celebrate, Yacht Haven is the ultimate home base for your Fort Lauderdale Fourth of July.