This Fourth of July is one for the history books. On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking a quarter millennium of the nation’s history, heritage and spirit.

There’s no better place to celebrate than Northeast Florida! From fireworks displays and beach days to historic sites and waterfront dining, here are some of the best ways to enjoy the holiday.

Fireworks Over the Matanzas (St. Augustine)

World Golf Village sits just minutes from St. Augustine, where the city’s annual celebration, Fireworks Over the Matanzas, takes place over Matanzas Bay. The evening begins at 6 p.m. in the Plaza de la Constitución, with a free concert by The All-Star Orchestra featuring patriotic favorites and popular music. The festivities continue with fireworks above the bayfront beginning at 9 p.m., lasting about 20 minutes with a synchronized patriotic soundtrack.

Northbank Riverwalk-Downtown Fourth of July Celebration – America 250 (Jacksonville)

Heading north, Jacksonville will host the largest July 4th fireworks display in the city’s history at Riverfront Plaza along the St. Johns River. The Northbank Riverwalk-Downtown Fourth of July Celebration is a free festival featuring live music, food trucks and family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts, the River City Readers Bookmobile and a student art exhibit. The evening ends with a 9 p.m. fireworks display launched over the river that’s visible from both sides of the downtown waterfront.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument’s “America Through Time” Program

In St. Augustine, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument offers “America Through Time,” a living history demonstration in addition to its regular programming. Visitors can explore scenes from different eras, including the 1820s, the Second Seminole War, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War and World War II. Regular admission applies, with free entry for visitors 15 and under.

Enjoy St. Augustine’s Beaches

The beach is a great way to ease into the day before the evening fireworks, with St. Augustine Beach offering a relaxed atmosphere, wide shoreline and easy access to restaurants, the pier, and family-friendly activities. Vilano Beach provides a quieter, more local feel with scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, making it ideal for a peaceful morning by the water. Nearby, Porpoise Point is a fan-favorite spot for watching boats drift by and taking in sunset views.

Wind Down with Dinner by the Water

After your beach day, you’ll still find plenty of dining options open throughout St. Augustine. Head downtown to Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille or Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila for popular waterfront dining. Or stay close to the beach, where Beaches at Vilano offers sunset views and fresh seafood, while Salt Life Food Shack serves coastal favorites like seafood tacos, burgers and poke bowls just minutes from the shoreline.

Now that you have a full itinerary, don’t forget to plan ahead, allot time for traffic and road closures and arrive early to secure the best waterfront viewing spot. Here’s to celebrating 250 years of American Independence along the coast!