(June 28–July 4, 2026)

America’s 250th birthday arrives this week, and the Pensacola area is celebrating with Blue Angels practices, races, live music, waterfront events, beach activities, and fireworks from downtown Pensacola to Pensacola Beach, Navarre, Milton, and Perdido Key.

Whether you want to start the holiday with a run, watch fireworks from the water, enjoy a free symphony concert, or spend the day at the beach, there are plenty of ways to celebrate.

Here are some of the best things to do around Pensacola during Fourth of July week.

Watch the Blue Angels Practice

Wednesday, July 1
10:30 AM to 11:30 AM
NAS Pensacola

The Blue Angels are scheduled for a Wednesday practice (Tuesday was canceled) this week over NAS Pensacola.

Practice days give locals and visitors another chance to watch the team before the Pensacola Beach Air Show later in July. Popular viewing options include designated areas near the National Naval Aviation Museum and boat cruises positioned around Pensacola Bay.

Schedules may change because of weather or operational needs, so check for updates before heading out.

Practice schedule and viewing information:

https://www.mustdopensacola.com/blueangelspractices

Attend Shark School on Navarre Beach

Thursday, July 2
8:30 AM to 10 AM
Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center

Shark School gives families an opportunity to learn about sharks found throughout the Gulf of Mexico and the important role they play in healthy marine ecosystems.

The program includes an introduction to Gulf Coast sharks, arts and crafts, a shark tooth treasure hunt, a certificate of completion, and early entrance to the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center.

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

https://www.mustdopensacola.com/news/shark-school-navarre-beach-july-2026

Run the Firecracker 5K

Saturday, July 4
7 AM
Seville Quarter
Downtown Pensacola

Start Independence Day with the Firecracker 5K through historic downtown Pensacola.

The race benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida and welcomes runners and walkers. Participants are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July themed event.

The morning also includes a Kids Fun Run, finisher medals, giveaways, and a McDonald’s After Party inside Seville Quarter.

Regular registration ends Thursday, July 2 at 11:59 PM. Late registration will be available beginning Friday, July 3.

Packet pickup takes place Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM at Apple Annie’s inside Seville Quarter. Race day pickup will be available from 6 AM to 6:45 AM.

Celebrate at Symphony Sparks & Stars

Saturday, July 4
Festivities begin at 7 PM
Concert begins at 7:30 PM
Fireworks begin at 9 PM
Hunter Amphitheater at Community Maritime Park

Symphony Sparks & Stars brings a free Independence Day concert to the Hunter Amphitheater behind Blue Wahoos Stadium.

The evening begins with the McGuire’s Pipe Band and a military flyover. The Pensacola Symphony Orchestra will then perform patriotic favorites, an Armed Forces Salute, and familiar American music before the downtown fireworks begin at 9 PM.

Guests should bring chairs or blankets and arrive early for parking.

Blue Wahoos Stadium will also host a separate ticketed celebration featuring water slides, lawn games, wiffle ball, music, Kazoo, and concessions.

Read the full event guide.

Watch the Pensacola Beach Fireworks from a Glow Kayak

Saturday, July 4
9 PM
Glow Paddle Pensacola Beach
165 Fort Pickens Road

Glow Paddle is offering a special nighttime kayaking experience during the Pensacola Beach fireworks.

Guests will launch in clear kayaks illuminated with LED lights and enjoy the fireworks from the water. The experience is self-paced and offers an alternative to watching from the crowded beach or Boardwalk.

No kayaking experience is required, but availability is limited and the event is expected to sell out.

Book the fireworks paddle:

Take a Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise

Saturday, July 4
Pensacola Beach
Boarding behind Shaggy’s

The Frisky Mermaid is offering a special Fourth of July boat cruise for guests who want to watch the Pensacola Beach fireworks from the water.

The 52-foot vessel includes an open bow, shaded mid-deck, and climate-controlled interior. Guests should arrive at the loading area behind Shaggy’s 30 minutes before departure and listen for the boarding announcement.

Pensacola Beach traffic and parking will be especially busy, so allow plenty of time to reach the boarding area.

Book the fireworks cruise

Visit Milton Riverfest

Saturday, July 4
4 PM to 8:30 PM
Jernigan’s Landing and Downtown Milton

Milton Riverfest offers an afternoon of activities along the Blackwater River before its fireworks display begins at 8:30 PM.

The celebration includes food vendors, waterslides, face painting, live music, the Blackwater Pyrates Duck Race, a children’s parade, and a chalk coloring contest.

The Duck Race begins at 5 PM. The Blue Anchor Belles perform at 5:30 PM, followed by the Chase Mitchell Band at 6:30 PM.

Boaters should be aware of temporary restrictions, including an all-day no-wake zone, limited access near the Riverwalk, and boating closures before the fireworks.

Fourth of July Fireworks Around Pensacola

Several fireworks displays are scheduled across the area Saturday night.

Downtown Pensacola
9 PM
Pensacola Bay near Bayfront Parkway

Pensacola Beach
9 PM
Santa Rosa Sound near the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk

Navarre Beach
9 PM
Navarre Beach Fishing Pier

Milton
8:30 PM
Blackwater River near Jernigan’s Landing

Perdido Key
9 PM
Flora-Bama

Fireworks schedules can change because of weather or other conditions. Check for updates before heading out.

See the complete fireworks schedule and viewing guide:

https://www.mustdopensacola.com/news/fourth-of-july-fireworks-times-pensacola-2026

Plan Your Fourth of July Weekend

The Fourth of July is one of the busiest weekends of the summer around Pensacola.

Arrive early for parking, allow extra time for beach and bridge traffic, bring water and sun protection, and check current beach flags before entering the Gulf.

Anyone watching from a boat should follow all restricted zones, no-wake rules, and instructions from local law enforcement and safety crews.

See the complete Fourth of July event guide:

https://www.mustdopensacola.com/news/fourth-of-july-events-pensacola-2026

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