Photo credits: Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk
There's no better place to spend the Fourth of July than right here on the water, and this year, it's bigger than ever. Join Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk and the City of Tampa's Liberty by the Bay celebration for the July 4th Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River and the Tampa Riverwalk, where thousands of spectators watch a dazzling display of red, white, and blue sail by, with activities at Jackson's Bistro (VIP) and Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park (Liberty by the Bay).
This year's celebration honors America 250: 250 years of history, freedom, and spirit. And the energy along the Riverwalk is going to be absolutely electric from afternoon straight through fireworks.
What's happening
- July 4th Boat Parade: Decorated boats cruise the Hillsborough River, competing for patriotic prizes and trophies, judged from Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park while crowds cheer from the Riverwalk.
- Water Ski Show: Kicking off the festivities before the parade begins. Trust us, you don't want to miss this.
- Blessing of the Fleet: A beloved tradition to open the celebration in style.
- Fireworks: Because no Fourth of July is complete without them, and the Riverwalk view is unmatched.
Want to be IN the parade? This is your sign to register your boat and be part of the show! Participating boaters get the full VIP treatment:
- Invitation to the exclusive Captain's Party
- Boater Swag Bag
- Official Registration Numbers
- Registered Boater Pennant Flag
- Chance to win the Most Patriotic Trophy + additional prizes
In honor of America's 250th birthday, boat registration is just $20.26. Register your boat now!
Want the full VIP experience? Snag a VIP ticket for an exclusive waterfront experience at Jackson's Bistro from 4:30–9:30 PM, featuring heavy hors d'oeuvres, three complimentary drink tickets, a full-service cash bar, and access to two bars all night. Choose between air-conditioned indoor seating in the Waterfront Room or covered outdoor seating overlooking the water. Either way, you'll have unmatched views of the boat parade, water ski show, and fireworks finale, making it one of the best seats in all of Tampa for the Fourth!
Getting there: The parade route runs along the Hillsborough River through Downtown Tampa. Grab a spot along the Tampa Riverwalk or head to Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park for prime viewing right where the boats are judged. Arrive early! This event draws thousands of spectators, and the good views go fast!
Please note: This event is part of Liberty by the Bay, the City of Tampa's full Fourth of July celebration. Stay for the whole day and soak in live entertainment, family-friendly activities, waterfront crowds, and the best fireworks show in the Bay. The Riverwalk is where Tampa comes together on the Fourth.
