There’s nothing quite like the Fourth of July on the Emerald Coast — where fireworks meet the shoreline and patriotic spirit blends with salty air and sunshine. From Destin to Rosemary Beach, the coast comes alive with family-friendly fun, parades, live music, and of course, spectacular fireworks displays over the water. If you’re spending Independence Day with My Vacation Haven, here’s everything you need to know to make your celebration unforgettable.
Fireworks on the Water
Destin Harbor
Head to Destin Harbor for one of the most iconic fireworks displays on the coast. Enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants or browse the shops at HarborWalk Village before the sky lights up over the harbor. Every Monday and Thursday during the summer, the Fireworks usually begin at 9:00 PM and are best viewed from the docks or aboard a fireworks cruise.
Baytowne Wharf
Baytowne pulls out all the stops with its Red, White, and Baytowne celebration. Expect family activities, lawn games, face painting, and live music before the grand finale fireworks show over the lagoon at 9:15 PM. Bonus: It's all walkable from many of our My Vacation Haven properties!
Seaside & Rosemary Beach
If you’re along 30A, make your way to Seaside or Rosemary Beach for charming small-town Fourth of July celebrations. Think morning parades, decorated bike rides, and evening concerts followed by fireworks over the Gulf.
Parades, Festivals & Patriotic Fun
July 4th Bike Parade in Seaside
Deck out your bike (and yourself!) in red, white, and blue and join locals and visitors for the annual Fourth of July Bike Parade through the streets of Seaside — a beloved tradition for all ages.
Star-Spangled Food Truck Festival at Destin Commons
Celebrate with food, music, and fun at this all-day festival featuring local food trucks, live entertainment, and a patriotic fireworks display after dark.
Celebrate Like a Local
Whether you're hitting the beach early to stake out your spot, grilling out poolside, or watching the sunset from your balcony, there's no wrong way to celebrate the Fourth when you're on vacation. Many of our homes include beach chairs, private pools, golfcarts to travel to the celebrations, and spacious patios — perfect for gathering with family and friends.
Stay with My Vacation Haven
Where you stay matters — and there’s no better time to book your Fourth of July getaway than now! From beachfront condos to private homes with pools and golf carts, My Vacation Haven has the perfect property for your Independence Day escape.
Let freedom ring, let the fireworks fly, and let your Fourth of July sparkle with a little Emerald Coast magic.
Ready to celebrate? Browse our vacation rentals today and start planning your summer getaway on Florida’s Emerald Coast!