Celebrate the country’s 250th birthday on July 4th and beyond
This year marks a major milestone in American history as the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th (semiquincentennial) anniversary on July 4th. From fireworks and picnics to museum exhibits and a special Freedom Plane, here are the best ways to celebrate 250 years of freedom in South Florida.
The City of Fort Lauderdale’s Free Fourth of July Spectacular
On Saturday, July 4th, starting at noon, Las Olas Oceanside Park is the scene of a patriotic extravaganza that features live bands, a kid’s zone, beach games, contests, family activities, and a dazzling fireworks display. When the sun sets, look to the skies for the city’s spectacular fireworks show on Fort Lauderdale beach, starting at 8:45 p.m. Saturday, July 4th from noon to 9:15 p.m. Admission is free.
Freedom Plane National Tour at the Museum of Miami
The Museum of Miami (101 West Flagler Street, Miami) will be one of eight institutions throughout the country to host the National Archives traveling Exhibit, Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation. The exhibit includes the William Stone engraving of the Declaration of Independence; the Articles of Association; the Treaty of Paris; the Oath of Allegiance signed by George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Aaron Burr; and a draft printing of the Constitution – many of which are the original documents. The museum will also unveil a digital mural where guests can share their “Wishes for America”. The exhibit runs from June 20 through July 5, 2026. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and $8 for children 12 and under (children under 6 are free).
Across This Land: America 250 at Coral Springs Museum of Art
This contemporary art exhibition celebrates the American land and its enduring presence across time. Featuring works by artists working in a range of media, the exhibition highlights landscapes, environments, and places that shape everyday experience—from open horizons and waterways to urban spaces and quiet, familiar ground. Presented in commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, Across this Land affirms the land as a source of inspiration, continuity, and collective pride. The exhibit runs from June 5 through August 1, 2026. Admission is free.
One Epic Fourth on Flagler
On July 4th, the City of West Palm Beach will host “One Epic Fourth on Flagler” from 5 to 10 p.m. This free, outdoor event spans the city’s waterfront along Flagler Drive and features multiple stages with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a wide array of food and drinks for purchase. Activities include a patriotic ceremony honoring members of the U.S. military, an inflatable bounce house area, line dancing lessons, and more. Enjoy live performances by Andrews Sisters tribute band the Swing Dolls, Gotta Groove performing classic R&B, DJ Reflex, and DJ Kid Karter. The celebration concludes with The Florida Crystals high-energy laser show synchronized with an 18-minute fireworks display over the Intracoastal Waterway. Admission is free.
250 United: America’s 250th Celebration at Bayfront Park
On July 4th, the Bayfront Park Management Trust presents 250 United: America’s 250th Celebration at Miami’s Bayfront Park. From 1 p.m. to midnight, enjoy an all-day celebration that includes live music, fireworks, a drone show, and FIFA World Cup viewing. Hosted by IRIE, the celebration features performances by Ashanti and Ja Rule, 112 featuring Slim and Mike, The Fray, Orlando Mendez, Shaggy, and Willy Chirino. The lineup spans R&B, pop-rock, reggae, hip-hop, and Latin music, creating an all-day concert program leading into the evening celebration. The event also includes a FIFA World Cup Fan Zone, along with food vendors available throughout the park. The night concludes with a fireworks display and an aerial drone light show over Biscayne Bay, timed to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. Admission is free with RSVP.
Brightline’s Freedom Express
Take a ride on Brightline’s Freedom Express, the 10-coach train wrapped in a bold patriotic motif in partnership with America250. The train travels along Brightline’s routes through July 2026, and depicts historic moments such as the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Washington crossing the Delaware, Lincoln at Gettysburg, the Golden Spike ceremony, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Wright Brothers’ first flight, the flag raising at Iwo Jima, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Lincoln Memorial speech, and Apollo 11.
The Grand Finale – Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade
On Saturday, December 12, the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade will close out this year’s spectacular celebrations. This year, the annual parade will boast a “Party in the USA” theme featuring elaborately decorated boats, celebrity appearances, salute to the military, and 12-miles of spectators lining the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. This year’s Parade will incorporate patriotic elements in honor of America 250, making it an unforgettable finale to a landmark year as the organization also honors the Parade’s 55th Anniversary.
