Fireworks, free concerts, historic tours, special exhibits, and patriotic celebrations make the Nation’s Oldest City a premier destination for Independence Day
St. Augustine, Fla. (June 17, 2026) – As communities across the country celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, St. Augustine is inviting visitors to experience Independence Day where centuries of history meet modern-day celebration. From spectacular waterfront fireworks and patriotic concerts to special tours, exhibits, and culinary experiences, the Nation’s Oldest City offers a unique way to commemorate the country’s milestone anniversary.
“Few places in America can celebrate Independence Day against a backdrop that spans nearly 500 years of history,” said Susan Phillips, President and CEO of the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau. “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.”
The centerpiece of the celebration is Fireworks Over the Matanzas on July 4, when fireworks light up the sky above the Matanzas River, with the historic Castillo de San Marcos serving as a dramatic backdrop. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of special America 250-themed events and experiences throughout the holiday weekend and the month of July
On July 4, the City of St. Augustine will present a performance by the All-Star Orchestra, featuring Big Band favorites and popular tunes with a patriotic flair, in the Plaza de la Constitución from 6 to 8 p.m.
Following the concert, the fireworks display—choreographed to a soundtrack of patriotic and popular music—will begin at 9 p.m. The best viewing areas are along the Bayfront between the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Bridge of Lions. In honor of the anniversary, admission to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument will be free July 3–5. On July 3, the National Park Service and the St. Augustine Music Festival will present a special outdoor musical program featuring patriotic fanfares and traditional fife-and-drum performances. Brass quintet performances will take place at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m. on the historic fort grounds.
Visitors can continue the celebration at Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, where admission will be just $2.50 on July 4 in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary. The museum will also participate in the nationwide simultaneous reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8 with a special commemorative public program.
Those interested in exploring the area’s Revolutionary War history can join the St. Augustine and the Birth of America free walking tour. Offered every Saturday in July at 6 p.m., the guided tour reveals St. Augustine’s surprising connections to the American Revolution, including East Florida’s loyalty to the British Crown, imprisoned signers of the Declaration of Independence, and stories of colonial intrigue hidden among the city’s historic streets.
Visitors seeking a memorable view of the fireworks can choose from a variety of special holiday cruises and boat excursions, offering front-row seats to the July 4 fireworks display from the waters of Matanzas Bay.
The celebration extends beyond historic sites with a variety of festive experiences throughout the destination. Guests can enjoy a special Fourth of July Cookout at the AC Hotel St. Augustine, featuring classic holiday fare and waterfront views, or take part in the Old Coast Pickleball Fireworks & Social, which combines friendly competition, community spirit, and a front-row seat to the holiday festivities. Throughout July, Cordova Coastal Chophouse & Bar at Casa Monica Resort & Spa will also offer a limited-time three-course prix fixe dining experience inspired by classic American steakhouse traditions.
The Lightner Museum, Villa Zorayda Museum, Peña-Peck House Museum & Cultural Center, and St. Augustine Art Association will feature special exhibits and programs honoring America’s 250th anniversary.
From patriotic celebrations and historic tours to waterfront dining and live entertainment, St. Augustine offers visitors a distinctive way to celebrate Independence Day during America’s 250th anniversary year.
Step into history and celebrate Independence Day on Florida’s Historic Coast. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, experience patriotic traditions, spectacular fireworks, and festive events in the nation’s oldest city. To learn more about 4th of July activities on Florida’s Historic Coast, visit www.floridashistoriccoast.com/events/holidays/july-4th.
Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida’s Historic Coast includes historic St. Augustine, the outstanding golf and seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra, the rural beauty of Hastings, Elkton, St. Johns, and 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches. Visitor Information Centers are located at 10 Castillo Drive, St. Augustine; 200 Solana Rd. Suite B, Ponte Vedra Beach; and at the St. Johns County Beach Pier Park, 350 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. For advance travel information, call 1-800-653-2489 or go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com. Check us out on social media Instagram @FloridasHistoricCoast; Facebook.com/OfficialStAugustine; and Threads @floridashistoriccoast
For More Information, contact:
Barbara Golden, Communications Manager
BGolden@FloridasHistoricCoast.com | 904-669-8142