If you just can’t wait for July 4th, join us in Apalachicola as we celebrate our Independence a little ahead of everyone else in America, on Independence Eve! July 3, 2017 will mark our sixth annual celebration of this award-winning event that culminates in a spectacular fireworks display over the Apalachicola River. Enjoy live music, great food, a parade, ice cream, veterans’ tribute, and more hosted by Apalachicola Main Street from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Riverfront Park on Water Street. Hamburgers, hotdogs, fries, and beverages will be available. You can also enter a raffle for your chance to win a Yeti cooler.

This year’s featured entertainment is Johnny & the Love Seats. Lead Singer Johnny Hayes was a contestant on NBC’s “The Voice” where he wowed millions with his soulful talent. You can view his performances from the show of “Try a Little Tenderness,” “Hard to Handle” and other hits at johnnyandtheloveseats.com. His band is influenced by R&B and rock music legends and their shows are fun and energetic.

The Red, White and Blue Parade, organized by Franklin’s Promise Coalition, lines up at Lafayette Park at 6:30. Bicycles, golf carts, pedestrians, and dogs decked out in red, white and blue join in. There’s no registration, and spaces are first come, first served.  You’ll be given a poster to display the name of a veteran you’d like to honor. The parade heads down Avenue B to Riverfront Park. After the parade, get in line for ice cream and all the trimmings at the free ice cream social. Kids can visit the Project Impact tent for free face painting, art activities, games, and prizes throughout the afternoon.

The Veterans’ Tribute will be given by Major General James Donald, U.S. Army (Retired) of St. George Island. This will be followed by the National Anthem. When the sun dips below the horizon, fireworks are launched from a barge on the Apalachicola River, creating a stunning show of lights over the water while patriotic music plays. It’s the most impressive fireworks show on the Forgotten Coast, and many people have told us that it rivals the fireworks of much larger cities.

The event is free. Bring your lawn chairs or picnic blanket. For a more upscale experience, become a sponsor at the $500 level or above and enjoy a reserved table in our exclusive VIP section on the docks where you can savor complementary refreshments from a private bar while taking in the fabulous view.

This event is the winner of the 2015 Florida Secretary of State’s Main Street Award for Outstanding Special Event. Its success is due to strong community support from individuals, businesses, the City of Apalachicola, and other organizations.

For more information, photos, video, and the schedule, please visit www.july3fireworks.com or call 844-272-2523.