How to Celebrate the 4th of July in St. Augustine

There’s nothing quite like the Fourth of July in St. Augustine. With fireworks bursting over Matanzas Bay, live music echoing through historic downtown, and the Atlantic breeze drifting in from the beach, it’s a scene that feels like it belongs in a movie. Whether you're here for the long weekend or just the big day, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to make the most of your St. Augustine 4th of July experience.

Fireworks Over the Matanzas: What to Expect

St. Augustine’s annual Fireworks Over the Matanzas returns Friday, July 4, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest yet! The festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with a live, two-hour performance from The All-Star Orchestra at the Plaza de la Constitución, right in the heart of historic downtown. Enjoy lively big band, swing, and patriotic tunes that will set the perfect tone for the celebration.

Then, at 9:30 p.m., all eyes turn to the sky. The fireworks display—featuring 5,000 shells reaching as high as 2,000 feet—will light up the night, choreographed to a soundtrack of familiar anthems. The entire bayfront between the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions becomes a front-row seat for this show.

Where to see fireworks in St. Augustine?

With such a huge display, the St. Augustine 4th of July fireworks are visible from lots of locations! Here are the top spots:

• Bayfront area (between Castillo and the Bridge of Lions)
• Along Avenida Menendez
• From the Bridge of Lions (closed to traffic during showtime)
• Vilano Beach for a unique across-the-water view

Just be sure to arrive early—space fills up fast, and road closures will begin in the late afternoon.

4th of July Parking, Traffic & Shuttles: Know Before You Go

Downtown parking is limited on the 4th, but the city offers free Park & Ride shuttle service from 6:00 p.m. to midnight from Anastasia Island, courtesy of Old Town Trolley Tours. Here’s where to park:

• Anastasia Baptist Church – 1650 A1A South
• St. Augustine Amphitheatre – 1340-C A1A South
• R.B. Hunt Elementary School – 125 Magnolia Dr.
• St. Augustine Alligator Farm – 999 Anastasia Blvd. (park only; cross at light to catch shuttle at Hunt Elementary)

The shuttles will drop passengers near Flagler Blvd and Gerado St. Note that no eastbound traffic will be allowed after 9:00 p.m., and several road closures begin as early as 4:00 p.m. near Cathedral Place.

For those parking downtown, the Historic Downtown Parking Facility (1 Cordova St.) is open for $20 per car or $3 with the ParkStAug discount for county residents. Parking in city-owned lots is free on July 4, but be mindful of signage—private lots may tow.

If you're arriving by water, note that the Bridge of Lions will not open for marine traffic after 8:00 p.m. Limited overnight and hourly slips are available at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina—contact them on VHF CH 16 or CH 71 for updates.

What to Do Before the Fourth of July Fireworks

Before the main event, make the most of your time in St. Augustine by exploring the Ancient City’s historic district, heading to the beach for some surf and sun, or booking an exciting tour!

The water adventures in St. Augustine are a great chance to add some unique flair to your visit. You can even book an excursion at night and enjoy the fireworks show from the water!

Best Water Tours in St. Augustine for 4th of July Weekend

• Anastasia Watersports – Paddle, pedal, and float in scenic Anastasia State Park
• St. Augustine Eco Tours – Dolphin-watching and estuary explorations
• Florida Water Tours – Sunset cruises, wildlife tours, and more
• Sea Serpent Tours – Airboat thrills and freshwater fun
• St. Augustine Boat Tours – Family-friendly sightseeing on the water
• Schooner Freedom – Classic sailing adventures with historic charm
• Black Raven Pirate Ship – Interactive pirate cruises perfect for families

Beach Shuttle Service

Heading to the beach before the evening events? St. Johns County offers free beach shuttles from July 4–6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

• St. Augustine Pier Shuttle: Runs from St. Augustine Beach City Hall (2200 A1A S.) to the Pier
• Mickler’s Landing Shuttle: Runs from Cornerstone Park (1046 A1A N.) to Mickler’s Beachfront Park

Shuttles run approximately every 20 minutes and help avoid beach-area traffic.

Live Music & Local Culture: Other Weekend Events

Oak Fest at Colonial Oak Music Park

July 3–6, 2025 | 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Daily

Located at 21 St. George Street, Colonial Oak Music Park hosts four days of free, family-friendly live music. With a 250-seat shaded amphitheater, it’s a great way to kick back in Old Florida style. Musical highlights include: 

• July 3: Cam Wheaton – 7:00 PM
• July 4: Josh Tennessee Worthy Ensemble – 2:00 PM, Marshal Horn – 7:00 PM
• July 5: Tru Phonic – 2:00 PM, Versvtile – 7:00–10:00 PM
• July 6: Shawn Ryan & Friends – 2:00 PM

First Friday Art Walk

Friday, July 4 | 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Coinciding with Independence Day this year, the Art Galleries of St. Augustine host their monthly First Friday Art Walk, featuring new exhibits, live music, and refreshments at galleries throughout downtown. Tour maps are available at participating galleries and online.

Where to Eat Before or After the Show

Make the most of your evening with a meal or cocktail at one of these spots near the bayfront:

• Casa Reina, 1 Anderson Circle – Rooftop margaritas and modern Latin cuisine
• Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen, 6 W. Castillo Drive – Southern comfort meets elevated dining
• Cellar Upstairs, 157 King Street – Wines, views, and acoustic tunes
• Harry’s Seafood, 46 Avenida Menendez – Classic Creole and a lively patio
• O.C. White’s, 118 Avenida Menendez – Seafood and Southern charm steps from the waterfront
• Raintree Restaurant, 102 San Marco Ave – Romantic garden dining in a historic home

See more St. Augustine restaurants

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Frequently Asked Questions about 4th of July in St. Augustine, FL

Is St. Augustine crowded in July?

Yes, the week of July 4th is one of the busiest times of year. Expect large crowds, especially downtown and on the beaches. Arrive early for events and dining, and make reservations when you're able.

Who has the best 4th of July celebration?

St. Augustine is consistently ranked as one of the top 4th of July destinations in Florida, thanks to its stunning fireworks show, historic setting, and weekend-long lineup of music and art.

What happened in 1565 St. Augustine?

St. Augustine was founded by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés in 1565, making it the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S.