Celebrating America’s 250th in Putnam County, FL
More than fireworks! Discover unique ways to celebrate America’s 250th in Putnam County, from classic displays to one-of-a-kind local experiences.
Traditional July 4th Celebrations
June 27 - Red, White & Boom – Crescent City - The Crescent City Yacht Club's 14th Annual Red, White & Boom includes the Street Market runs from 5:00 p.m. and includes 9:30 p.m. fireworks launching over Lake Crescent around sundown (approximately 9:00 p.m.), with the best viewing at the Crescent City Boat Ramp and Central Avenue. https://www.crescentcitydowntownpartnership.com.
July 4 – July 4th Boat Parade & Fireworks Celebration – Palatka – The City of Palatka’s Independence Day event returns to the Palatka riverfront with a full evening of family-friendly entertainment and patriotic tradition that begins at 4:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, a kids’ zone, and interactive activities, including face painting and performances by local groups. A highlight of the evening is the Boat Parade on the St. Johns River, followed by one of the region’s most anticipated fireworks displays at 9:30 p.m., lighting up the waterfront. https://www.palatka-fl.gov/Calendar VIP viewing packages can be purchased here.
July 4 – July 4th All American Blast in a Small Town – Interlachen - The Town of Interlachen continues its hometown tradition with a full day of activities beginning with a bike race at 8:00 a.m., a community parade, and local festivities, bringing everyone together for a classic small-town Independence Day celebration that includes sack races, tug-of-war, and street dancing. https://www.interlachen-fl.gov/our-events/.
July 4 – Welaka Celebrates America’s 250th – Welaka – The Town of Welaka will host its annual Golf Cart Parade to commemorate America’s 250th at Noon. They encourage everyone to eat at local restaurants/fish camps.
Other Non-Traditional Celebrations
June 24 – July 5 - The Seabreeze Concert Series on the St. Johns River – Palatka - 
This concert series will be performed from the deck of The Amara Zee, a unique piece of maritime history. The Amara Zee's design is based on traditional Thames River sailing barges, flat-bottom boats popular in London, England. However, in 1993, builders incorporated contemporary marine and theater technology into the ship in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, making it a unique stage for performances. Concert dates and times vary between June 24 and July 5. https://amarazee.org/.
June 27 – Cruise-in for the Splash-in – Palatka – Join the Pride of Palatka for a special one-day river cruise experience during the Safar Splash-In seaplane event. Enjoy a relaxed, social 'river day' with a scenic downriver cruise, light breakfast snacks, music, and a tropical party atmosphere, while the vessel stages near the sandbar for viewing. The captain and first mate handle navigation and safety so guests can socialize, take photos, and enjoy front-row river scenery from a comfortable covered seating area aboard the passenger vessel. 21+ ONLY! A valid ID is required to board.) Tickets can be purchased at https://boathouseriverfront.com/scenic-cruises-tours/.
June 27 – Welaka Founders Day Celebration – Welaka - Enjoy guided historic golf cart tours or selfguided walking tours to commemorate Welaka’s 139th birthday along the St. Johns River. https://sites.google.com/view/historyofwelaka/walking-tour.
June 28 – Bird Expo – East Palatka - Calling all bird lovers! The Palatka Bird Expo is flying in for a full day of feathered fun, shopping, and education. From colorful birds to supplies for your feathered friends, this is a must-visit for avian enthusiasts of all ages! https://staugustineexoticbirdfair.com/.
July 3 - 5 – Florida State Park Free Admission - As the nation celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) invites residents and visitors to rediscover the Sunshine State’s natural beauty and renowned recreation. and our shared American heritage, visit Dunns Creek State Park or Ravine Gardens State Park.
July 3 - 5 - Hog Waller All-Hours – Palatka - Mud, fun, and sun all weekend long! All ATVs, SXSs, and UTVs are welcome at Hog Waller for mud-made adventures. Campers, RVs, and primitive camping options are available. 24-hour riding begins Friday, July 3, at 8:00 a.m. and ends Sunday, July 5, at 5:00 p.m. https://www.hogwallerfl.com/.
July 3 – 4 – Melrose Center Art Walk & July 4th Celebration – Melrose – LIVE MUSIC EVERY FIRST FRIDAY! Art Walk – dinner proceeds support The Melrose Center and its programs. Dinner and Art begins at 5:00 p.m., and the music begins at 6:00 p.m. For more information, visit https://the-melrose-center.org/artwalk/.
July 3 – Summer Night Lights – Palatka - Summer just got a brand new vibe! Summer Night Lights is a new event lighting up Riverfront Park -- bringing live music, local vendors, food trucks, and a vibrant night market atmosphere to the riverfront. It's your new Friday night plan--good music, good food, and summer nights by the water. https://visitpalatka.com/events/summer-night-lights-2/.
Visit Putnam County, FL, recently launched their Dock & Dine Tour featuring nine local waterfront or water view dining experiences that make it great for boaters, seaplanes, or those just wanting a great water view. To view the tour, download the Visit Putnam County, FL app in your app store or go to https://www.putnamcountychamber.com/visit-putnam/ and select Tour, Dock & Dine.
Putnam County is the perfect place for your next inland escape, for a quiet place to unplug, or for some
unexpected adventure this summer! With a mix of traditional festivities and unique local experiences,
we invite everyone to explore what makes our community special during the Fourth of July holiday
week.
About the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce Tourism Department:
The Putnam County Chamber of Commerce Tourism Department is the official destination marketing
organization for Putnam County, Florida, promoting travel that supports local businesses and
strengthens the community year-round. Along the scenic St. Johns River, visitors discover charming
small towns, abundant waterways, and authentic outdoor experiences. Learn more at
VisitPutnamCountyFL.com