It’s Independence Day! What’s on the calendar in the Naples area?
It all starts on July 3, at Miromar Outlets in Estero. July 3 celebrations begin at 6 pm with live music, face painting for the kids, and balloon animals. A Bon Jovi tribute band performs at 7:30. The real treat is fireworks over the lake, beginning at dusk. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy! (And yes, there are sidewalk sales at the mall, too.)
Closer to home, check out the Independence Day Kickoff Party at The Mercato. Enjoy live classic rock music, an outdoor bar, lawn games, and kids’ activities. Of course, you’ll enjoy the many options for casual dining at The Mercato. And The Mercato is one of Naples’ best places for just browsing and enjoying the crowd.
Downtown Naples sizzles on the 4th with the annual 4th of July Parade at 10 am along Third St. South and Fifth Avenue South. The traditional fireworks show begins at 9 pm at the Naples Pier.
Plan to arrive early for fireworks. Bring your beach chairs and a picnic, pick up some prepared foods from Fresh Market, Whole Foods, or Wynns, or get carry out for dinner at the beach.
You can view the display from all of our local beaches. Lowdermilk Park is a great viewing spot and offers a playground for the kids.
A unique viewing venue is the rooftop barbecue at The Waterside Shops. Beginning at 7:30 pm, enjoy food, music, and prizes for the “most patriotic” dress. Reservations are required for this one, however, so contact the mall to reserve your spot.
Further north, if you wish to watch from Vanderbilt Beach or Delnor Wiggins State Park, the display will lose some of its magnificence….but you will still be able to “ooh and ash.” And on a clear night, you’ll be able to spot some red, white, and blue twinkles all the way from Marco Island to Bonita Beach.
Have A Happy Fourth!
