Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

Visit a National Park for FREE Today - See Florida List
2026-07-03, 2026-07-04 | FL
2026 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:

February 16: Presidents Day (Washington’s Birthday)
May 25: Memorial Day
June 14: Flag Day/President Trump’s birthday
July 3-5: Independence Day weekend
August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service
September 17: Constitution Day
October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday
November 11: Veterans Day

Beginning in 2026, free entrance on these days will be for US citizens and residents only. Nonresidents will pay the regular entrance fee and any applicable nonresident fees.
For more information on these free days, visit nps.gov

Florida National Parks
Big Cypress National Preserve (Ochopee)
Explore more than 729,000 acres of swamps, wetlands, and forests that help support the Everglades ecosystem. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including alligators, wading birds, and the endangered Florida panther. Learn more.
Biscayne National Park (Miami, Key Biscayne & Homestead)
Just outside Miami, Biscayne National Park protects crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, islands, and historic shipwrecks. It’s a popular destination for boating, snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying beautiful coastal scenery. Learn more.
Canaveral National Seashore (Titusville & New Smyrna Beach)
This undeveloped stretch of coastline offers pristine beaches, sand dunes, wildlife viewing, and a glimpse into Florida’s rich history. It’s one of the longest stretches of untouched beach on the East Coast.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (St. Augustine)
Step back in time at the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Built by the Spanish more than 300 years ago, this historic landmark overlooks Matanzas Bay in downtown St. Augustine.

De Soto National Memorial (Bradenton)
Located along Tampa Bay, this memorial commemorates the 1539 landing of Hernando de Soto and his expedition. Visitors can enjoy waterfront trails, history exhibits, and scenic views.
Dry Tortugas National Park (Near Key West)
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas is known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, abundant birdlife, and the massive Fort Jefferson. It’s one of Florida’s most unique national parks.
Everglades National Park (South Florida)
Covering 1.5 million acres, Everglades National Park protects one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Visitors can spot alligators, manatees, birds, and other wildlife while exploring wetlands, trails, and waterways.

Fort Caroline National Memorial (Jacksonville)
Learn about one of the earliest European settlements in what is now the United States. The memorial shares the story of French settlers and their struggle for survival in 16th-century Florida.
Fort Matanzas National Monument (St. Augustine)
This small but fascinating fort helped protect St. Augustine from attacks arriving by sea. Visitors can explore the historic watchtower and surrounding beaches, marshes, and nature trails.

Gulf Islands National Seashore (Florida & Mississippi)
Known for sugar-white sand beaches and emerald waters, Gulf Islands National Seashore offers swimming, wildlife viewing, hiking, and historic sites along the Gulf Coast.
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve (Jacksonville)
Discover coastal wetlands, salt marshes, forests, and thousands of years of history at this beautiful preserve. The area also includes Fort Caroline and the historic Kingsley Plantation.

Fourth of July Weekend!
2026-07-03 - 2026-07-06 | SkateWorld Tampa, 7510 Paula Dr., Tampa, FL, 33615, United States
Join us All Fourth of July Weekend for Our Awesome Skate Events!
Friday:
Glow Skate 12pm-4pm
Summerween Skate Party 6:30pm-9:30pm
Saturday
All Day Fourth of July Skate with Stitch and Angel 12pm-6pm
Sunday
All Day All You Can Eat Cheese Pizza Skate 1:30pm-7pm

Florida Botanical Gardens- Free Admission
2026-07-03 07:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-04 07:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, 33774, United States
Florida Botanical Gardens
The Florida Botanical Gardens is one of the best free outdoor attractions in Pinellas County, featuring more than 100 acres of gardens, walking trails, native Florida plants, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. It’s a great spot for families, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to explore.
Admission: Free
Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Christmas Day and the day after Thanksgiving
Entrances:

12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL
12211 Walsingham Road, Largo, FL

What You’ll Find

Butterfly and pollinator gardens
Tropical and native Florida plants
Walking and nature trails
Wetlands and wildlife viewing areas
Children’s garden areas
Seasonal events and plant festivals throughout the year

The gardens are located next to Heritage Village, making it easy to combine both attractions into a free day trip for families.
Tip: Visit in the morning during the summer months for cooler temperatures and the best chance to see butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.

Father's Day at Imagine Museum: Dad's World
2026-07-03 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL, 33713, United States
Father’s Day at Imagine Museum: Dad’s World
Treat dad to a one-of-a-kind Father’s Day experience at Imagine Museum, where kids design their own planet inspired by their dad, create mission cards and keepsake crafts, and explore stunning contemporary glass art exhibitions. Best of all, dads get in free all weekend long — spots fill quickly so book ahead.
Date and Time: Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 21, 2026 (regular museum hours apply)
Location: Imagine Museum, 1901 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Fathers receive free admission; Kids $5 (June 19–21 only)
Activities Include: “Dad’s World” interactive planet-design experience, Mission Cards and keepsake creations, glass-inspired collage and hands-on art activities, full access to contemporary glass art exhibitions

Pasco Scallop & Music Festival 2026
2026-07-03 10:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | SunWest Park, 17362 Old Dixie Highway,, Hudson, 34667, United States
Pasco Scallop & Music Festival 2026
Two weekends of live music, coastal food, family fun, and scalloping spirit await at Sunwest Park on Florida’s Sports Coast — and admission is completely free. From a July 4th fireworks show at 9 PM to a 5K coastal run, beach volleyball, and sand soccer tournaments, there’s something for everyone across both weekends.
Date and Time:

Weekend 1: Friday–Sunday, July 3–5, 2026
Weekend 2: Friday–Sunday, July 10–12, 2026 (daily hours vary; music runs through 11:00 PM)

Location: Sunwest Park, 17362 Old Dixie Hwy, Hudson, FL 34667
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free admission | Parking $5 (or valid Pasco County parking pass)
Activities Include: Live music both weekends (featuring Shakes Society, The American Stones, Journey Tribute, Def Leppard Tribute, Florida Hit Machine, and more), July 4th fireworks at 9 PM, beach volleyball tournament (July 3–5), Scallop Splash 5K Race (July 11), Beach Blast Sand Soccer Tournament (July 11–12), food trucks, local vendors, family fun
Contact: Coleen Weaver, cweaver@pascocountyfl.net | (727) 992-6717

250th Celebration – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
2026-07-03 10:00 - 17:00 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, 33612, United States
250th Celebration – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens goes all-American this summer with a patriotic limited-time celebration packed with world-class coasters, live shows, Americana-inspired food, and the brand-new Wild Skies Drone & Fireworks Show lighting up the night sky every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Pass Members 21+ get two complimentary 7 oz beers per day at Overlook Taproom, and all guests 21+ receive one free pour — plus special military appreciation experiences and exclusive patriotic merchandise throughout the park.

Date and Time: May 22 – July 5, 2026 (Wild Skies Drone & Fireworks Show every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at sunset — weather permitting; check daily show schedule for showtimes)
Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Included with park admission; tickets required (buschgardens.com/tampa/tickets)
Activities Include: World-class roller coasters with extended evening hours, live shows (Beach Bash, Cirque Electric), Wild Skies Drone & Fireworks Show, complimentary beer (21+), Americana-inspired food and summer treats, military appreciation experiences, exclusive Pass Member perks, patriotic merchandise and commemorative souvenirs

Småland Kids Play Area at IKEA Tampa
2026-07-03 14:00 - 18:00 | IKEA Tampa, 1103 N 22nd St, Tampa, 33605, United States
Småland Kids Play Area at IKEA Tampa
A simple option for parents who want a little breathing room while shopping. Kids can spend time in a supervised play space, giving you a short window to walk through the store without distractions.
Date and Time: May 18 – August 31, 2026
Weekdays: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Weekends: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Location: IKEA Tampa, FL
Age: 3–10 years (must be potty trained, 37″–54″ height)
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Supervised playtime (30 minutes, extra time for IKEA Family members)
Contact: 1-888-888-4532

Grand Old Fourth Weekend - Holiday Isle Elks Lodge #1912
2026-07-03 14:00 - 21:00 | Holiday Isle Elks – Lodge #1912, 14111 E Parsley Dr,, Madeira Beach, 33708, United States
Grand Old Fourth Weekend – Holiday Isle Elks Lodge
Celebrate the Fourth of July weekend at the Holiday Isle Elks Lodge in Madeira Beach with three days of live music, food specials from Dead Bob’s Waterfront Restaurant, and fun contests with cash prizes. The weekend wraps up with a perfect view of the city fireworks on the 4th and 50/50 drawings on Sunday.
Date and Time: Friday, July 3 – Sunday, July 5, 2026

July 3: Live music & food specials
July 4: Live music & food specials, Cheese Ball Eating Contest

@ 2 PM ($100 to winner), Most Patriotic Costume Contest
@ 4 PM ($100 to winner), American Trivia Contest
@ 5 PM ($250 to winner), City Fireworks
@ 9 PM July 5: Live music & food specials, 50/50 drawings

Location: Holiday Isle Elks Lodge #1912, Madeira Beach, FL
Age: Family friendly (open to the public)
Activities Include: Live music, food from Dead Bob’s Waterfront Restaurant, Cheese Ball Eating Contest, Most Patriotic Costume Contest, American Trivia Contest, city fireworks, 50/50 drawings

Clearwater Celebrates America – Coachman Park
2026-07-03 17:00 - 23:00 | Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland Street,, Clearwater, 33755, United States
Clearwater Celebrates America – Coachman Park
Clearwater’s two-night Independence Day festival wraps up a week-long America 250 celebration with an interactive kids zone, musical performances, buskers, and local food vendors both nights. July 3rd features a thrilling laser light show, while July 4th closes with a patriotic fireworks show — plus the first-ever Clearwater’s Got Talent Showcase at 6 PM where local performers compete for a chance to headline the 2027 event.
Date and Time: Friday, July 3, 2026, 5:00–11:00 PM (Laser Light Show) | Saturday, July 4, 2026, 5:00–11:00 PM (Clearwater’s Got Talent at 6:00 PM | Fireworks finale)
Location: Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland Street, Clearwater, FL 33755
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Interactive children’s zone, live musical performances, buskers, local food vendors, laser light show (July 3), Clearwater’s Got Talent Showcase (July 4 at 6:00 PM), patriotic fireworks show (July 4)
Contact: City of Clearwater & The BayCare Sound, (727) 562-4800

Clearwater Celebrates America – Coachman Park
2026-07-03 17:00 - 23:00 | Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland Street,, Clearwater, 33755, United States
Clearwater Celebrates America – Coachman Park
Clearwater’s two-night patriotic extravaganza returns to Coachman Park with local vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities, live music, and buskers throughout the park both evenings. July 3rd features a Laser Light Show at 9:15 PM, while July 4th closes with what’s being touted as the biggest fireworks display in Clearwater’s history — plus the first-ever Clearwater’s Got Talent Showcase at 6 PM.
Date and Time: Friday, July 3, 2026, 5:00–11:00 PM (Laser Light Show ~9:15 PM) | Saturday, July 4, 2026, 5:00–11:00 PM (Clearwater’s Got Talent 6:00 PM | Fireworks ~9:15 PM)
Location: Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland Street, Clearwater, FL 33755
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Local vendors and food trucks, family-friendly activities, live music, buskers, laser light show (July 3), Clearwater’s Got Talent Showcase (July 4 at 6:00 PM), patriotic fireworks show (July 4 — biggest in Clearwater’s history)
Contact: City of Clearwater & The BayCare Sound, (727) 562-4800

Faith & Fireworks – America 250 at Idlewild Baptist Church
2026-07-03 18:00 - 21:00 | Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd,, Lutz, 33548, United States
Faith & Fireworks – America 250 at Idlewild Baptist Church
Idlewild Baptist Church invites the whole community to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with an evening of faith, music, and fireworks — completely free and open to all. The night begins with a stirring indoor Patriotic Showcase featuring Idlewild’s own Choir and Orchestra, including a special salute to service men and women, followed by family fun on the back fields and a pulse-quickening fireworks spectacular at 9 PM over the back lawn.

Date and Time: Friday, July 3, 2026 | Indoor Patriotic Concert: 6:00 PM | Fireworks Spectacular: 9:00 PM
Location: Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd, Lutz, FL 33548
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free and open to all
Activities Include: Indoor Patriotic Showcase with Choir and Orchestra, special military salute, bounce houses, balloons, lawn games and activities across back fields, food trucks and sweet treats, outdoor fireworks spectacular
Contact: idlewild.org/america250

Impact Martial Arts Patents Night Out
2026-07-03 18:00 - 22:00 | Impact Martial Arts, 13038 Race Track Rd, Tampa, United States
Karate Parents Night Out in Tampa

Now, Every Friday AND Saturday Night is
Parent’s Night Out at Impact Martial Arts!
Parents, need an evening without the kids? Our Parents Night Out gives you the opportunity to take a well-deserved break. Go out for a night on the town feeling confident that your little ones are safe and having the time of their lives with their favorite Karate teachers.
This incredible evening for your children is filled with a variety of fun games, activities, and they won’t want the night to end! And don’t worry about food – we’ll take care of that too!!
Every Parents Night Out event activities are different, and include themes like Fortress Dodgeball, Nerf Wars, Ninja night with obstacle courses and more!
Our Parents Night Out events always include:
– Fun games on the mat such as dodgeball, moon ball and much more
– Obstacle Courses
– 2 slices of Pizza
– Drinks
– Staff of certified martial arts instructors
– 4 hours of fun for kids from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
*For safety reasons, PNOs are for kids ages 6 yrs to 11 yrs only.
The cost for PNO is $30 per child. PNO often sells out quickly due to its bodacious fun and limited space, so register ASAP if you would like your child to attend PNO!

Register here for this weekends Parent’s Night Out!

AquaGlow – Adventure Island Tampa Bay
2026-07-03 20:00 - 23:00 | Adventure Island Tampa Bay, 10001 N. McKinley Drive,, Tampa, 33612, United States
AquaGlow – Adventure Island Tampa Bay
Adventure Island transforms into a neon paradise after dark for AquaGlow, a family-friendly nighttime event with vibrant lights, pulsing music, and immersive surprises around every corner. With limited capacity, it’s a more relaxed, exclusive experience — perfect for glowing, dancing, and making summer memories with the whole family.
Date and Time: Select nights May 22 – August 8, 2026, 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Adventure Island Tampa Bay, 10001 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Starting at $39.99/person (single night); $34.99/person for groups of 15+; optional meal add-on $10 (entrée + fountain drink). Cabana and lounger upgrades available starting at $69.00
Activities Include: Neon light experience, live entertainment, glowing atmosphere, dancing, wave pool, water slides, access to park attractions

Lutz 4th of July Celebration
2026-07-04 06:00 - 12:00 | Lutz Branch Library, 101 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd,, Lutz, 33548, United States
Lutz 4th of July Celebration
Lutz goes all out for Independence Day with a jam-packed morning starting with a 5K, a 1-mile fun run, a flag ceremony, parade, and a post-parade celebration featuring the Lutz Guv’na Inauguration and a Cake Auction Fundraiser. This year’s theme — “Lutz Salutes 250 Years! Let Freedom Ring! 1776–2026” — makes it an extra special celebration.
Date and Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026, starting at 6:45 AM (Parade at 10:00 AM)
Location: 101 W Lutz Lake Fern Rd, Lutz, FL 33548 (Bleachers and Announcer in front of Lutz Library; Parade starts at corner of Crooked Lane and Lutz Lake Fern Road)
Age: All ages
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Jazzercise warm-up (6:45 AM), Independence Day 5K (7:30 AM), 1-Mile Fun Run (8:15 AM), 5K awards at Train Depot (8:30 AM), Flag Ceremony with Boy Scout Troop 12 and Civil Air Patrol (9:00 AM), National Anthem, parade (10:00 AM), parade trophies, Lutz Guv’na Inauguration, Cake Auction Fundraiser at Lutz Civic Center
Contact: LutzParade@gmail.com | LutzParade.com

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Free Monthly Building Projects for Kids
2026-07-04 08:00 - 17:00 | FL
Free Monthly Building Projects for Kids
Looking for a free family activity? The Home Depot Kids Workshop offers children the chance to build a new hands-on project each month at no cost. These popular workshops are geared toward kids ages 5–12, but children of all ages are welcome to participate.
Workshops are held on the first Saturday of each month at participating Home Depot stores. Registration is required and families can choose from several workshop sessions available between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
2026 Home Depot Kids Workshop Schedule

June 6, 2026 – Goalie Game (Registration Open)
July 4, 2026 – Go Kart (Registration Opens June 6)
August 1, 2026 – Rocket Game (Registration Opens July 4)
September 5, 2026 – School Bus Organizer (Registration Opens August 1)
October 3, 2026 – Witch Candy Box (Registration Opens September 5)
November 7, 2026 – Dump Truck (Registration Opens October 3)
November 21, 2026 – Christmas Car Ornament (Registration Opens November 7)
December 5, 2026 – Holiday Train (Registration Opens November 21)
January 2, 2027 – Claw Machine Bank (Registration Opens December 5)

Workshop Details

Cost: Free
When: First Saturday of each month
Time: Sessions available between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM
Registration: Required in advance
Recommended Ages: 5–12 years old

Each child receives a project kit to complete during the workshop and take home. These free DIY events are a fun way for kids to build, create, and learn new skills while spending quality time with family.
Because spots can fill quickly, it’s a good idea to register as soon as each month’s registration opens.

REGISTER HERE >>

Safety Harbor 4th of July – Parade & Fireworks
2026-07-04 10:00 - 11:30 | Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL 34695, Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL 34695, Safety Harbor, 34695, United States
Safety Harbor 4th of July – Parade & Fireworks

Bring the whole family out for a Safety Harbor-style Fourth of July, kicking off with a parade down Main Street featuring children’s activities, live entertainment, and food vendors. Stick around after the parade for a Patriotic Ceremony at the Gazebo at approximately 11:30 AM, then head to Safety Harbor Waterfront Park in the evening for food trucks, kids activities, and a fireworks show at 9:00 PM.
Date and Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026, Parade 10:00 AM | Patriotic Ceremony ~11:30 AM | Fireworks 9:00 PM
Location: Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL 34695 (Evening: Safety Harbor Waterfront Park)
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free

Celebration Station Clearwater Summer Early Bird Deal
2026-07-04 10:00 - 12:00 | FL
Celebration Station Clearwater Early Bird Deal: Unlimited Attractions for $19.95
Looking for a fun and affordable family activity in Clearwater? Beat the heat this summer with Celebration Station’s Early Bird Deal. Arrive before noon and enjoy an All-Day Unlimited Attractions Pass for just $19.95 per person.
This deal is available when the park opens at 10:00 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, giving families plenty of time to enjoy go-karts, mini golf, batting cages, bumper boats, arcade games, and more.
Deal Details

Price: $19.95 per person
Includes: All-Day Unlimited Attractions Pass
When: Arrive before noon
Available: Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays
Park Opening Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Celebration Station Clearwater

If you’re looking for cheap family fun in Clearwater or a way to keep the kids entertained during summer break, this is one of the best attraction deals in the Tampa Bay area.

Learn more about this summer deal.
24546 US Hwy 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33763

Sensory Saturday | Hands-On with Curious Creations Co.
2026-07-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, 255 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL, 33701, United States
Families with children with sensory sensitivities are invited to explore the galleries during our Sensory Saturday. During this time, all rotating audio components will be turned down or muted to ensure a calm environment.
Also, join our Sensory Saturday Hands-On program for activities inspired by Yvette Mayorga’s The Magic Grasshopper, displayed in front of the museum. Explore and experiment with non-toxic, sensory-friendly materials in the Membership Garden. All ages are welcome, though activities are generally geared towards ages 2-10.
Sensory Saturdays occur on the first Saturday of every month.
Sat, July 4, 10 AM – 12 PM
If you would like to participate in the hands-on activities, registration is required at $5 per person. Only register those participating in sensory play.
Please select a time slot of either 10 AM – 11 AM or 11 AM – 12 PM.
REGISTER FOR 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
REGISTER FOR 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
All visitors must also purchase a museum admission ticket to have access to the galleries, as the activities will be in our Membership Garden within the museum. MFA Members get free gallery admission.
MFA ADMISSION
Not yet a member?
Become a member today and enjoy all the benefits membership at the MFA offers!
Enjoy free admission, special access, discounts at the MFA Shop and Café Clementine, and more. Bring the whole family!
BECOME A MEMBER

ABOUT CURIOUS CREATIONS CO.

As a mom to two energetic boys, Celine understands the importance of keeping little hands and minds engaged with fun, screen-free activities. She began creating sensory bins to encourage her oldest son to explore, learn, and play independently—and what started as a simple solution quickly grew into a true passion.
Through her business, Curious Creations Co., Celine designs sensory kits, toys, and learning materials that spark curiosity and creativity while promoting fine motor skills, sensory exploration, and imaginative play. Each item is lovingly handcrafted to bring joy, learning, and a little magic into every home.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment or watching your child dive into a world of discovery, you can trust that they’re engaged in meaningful, enriching play. Celine is grateful for every family that makes Curious Creations Co. part of their journey—your support means the world!

Sensory Saturdays is part of our Picture of Health initiative. Picture of Health is a comprehensive initiative that explores interconnected notions of well-being transcending geographical and temporal boundaries, leveraging the MFA Collection as a starting point. This program fosters a holistic investigation of health, encompassing cognitive, physical, physiological, emotional, civic, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions, all with the aim of nurturing a sense of wellness within our community.

4th of July Parade – Safety Harbor
2026-07-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL 34695, Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL 34695, Safety Harbor, 34695, United States
4th of July Parade – Safety Harbor
Hosted by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 238, this patriotic Main Street parade is the perfect way to kick off Independence Day morning. Wear your red, white, and blue and cheer on the floats as they travel east from 9th Avenue South toward the intersection of Main Street and Philippe Parkway.
Date and Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL 34695 (parade begins at 9th Avenue South)
Age: All ages
Cost: Free
Contact: (727) 726-9601 (to enter a float in the parade)

Largo Central Railroad - Saturday
2026-07-04 10:00 - 14:00 | Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr, Largo, 33771, United States
The Largo Central Railroad hits the rails the first full weekend of every month (except on weekends with a large event). Enjoy the miniature train ride through Largo Central Park. The ride is available for anyone ages 1 and up (except for pregnant mothers).
*Please note that all participants must wear shoes and sorry this is not a ride for pets.
Save some time and fill out the waiver before you arrive at the park.
Please visit the Largo Central Railroad website to find out how you can volunteer or host your next birthday party with them.

Train Weekend

DATE:
Sat, Apr 4, 2026 & Sun, Apr 5, 2026
Sat, May 2, 2026 & Sun, May 3, 2026
Sat, Jun 6, 2026 & Sun, Jun 7, 2026
Sun, July 5, 2026
Sat, Aug 1, 2026 & Sun, Aug 2, 2026
Sat, Sep 5, 2026 & Sun, Sep 6, 2026
Sat, Oct, 3, 2026 & Sun, Oct 4, 2026
Sat, Nov 7, 2026 & Sun, Nov 8, 2026
Sun, Dec 6, 2026
TIME: 10am-2pm
LOCATION: Largo Central Park
COST: Free, but donations to the club are appreciated

A Star-Spangled Story: Battle for America
2026-07-04 10:00 - 16:00 | Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Water Street, Tampa, FL, 33602, United States
Celebrate Independence Day at the Tampa Bay History Center with “A Star-Spangled Story: Battle for America,” a Smithsonian Channel documentary exploring the surprising history and secrets behind “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
“The Star-Spangled Banner” is known by all, treasured for its powerful melody and stirring lyrics. And yet, only about 40% of U.S. citizens know all the words. And even fewer know their meaning. Join us as we travel back to 1814, when Washington D.C. was under British attack during the “Second War of Independence,” and the very bricks and mortar of American democracy were reduced to smoking rubble. We examine the battle that inspired witness Francis Scott Key to immortalize its final moments, then reveal how his poem transformed into an anthem.
Screenings are included with gallery admission and will begin every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 4, 2026.
TV-PG / 51 min
GET TICKETS

Did you know “The Star-Spangled Banner” began as a poem set to the tune of a popular 18th-century song? In this Smithsonian Channel clip from “A Star-Spangled Story: Battle for America,” explore the surprising origins of the anthem and the story behind the words that became one of the nation’s most recognizable songs.

Want the full story? Join us at the Tampa Bay History Center for a special screening of “A Star-Spangled Story: Battle for America,” a documentary that revisits the War of 1812, the Battle of Baltimore, and the dramatic night at Fort McHenry that inspired Francis Scott Key. The screening connects one of America’s best-known symbols to the people, conflict, and moments that shaped its meaning.

51st 4th of July Celebration – Temple Terrace
2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | Family Recreation Complex, 6610 E Whiteway Dr,, Temple Terrace, 33617, United States
51st 4th of July Celebration – Temple Terrace
Temple Terrace pulls out all the stops for its 51st Independence Day celebration, kicking off with a morning parade and wrapping up with live music, food, family fun, and a fireworks finale at the Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club. It’s a full day of community festivities you won’t want to miss.
Date and Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026 | Parade: 10:00 AM | Evening Celebration: 6:00 PM | Fireworks: ~9:15 PM (weather permitting)
Location: Morning Parade: begins near Family Recreation Complex, 6610 Whiteway Drive, traveling south on Gillette Avenue | Evening Celebration: Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club, 200 Inverness Ave
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free
Activities Include: Annual parade, live music, DJ entertainment, family-friendly activities, food vendors, fireworks finale
Contact: Temple Terrace Parks & Recreation, (813) 506-6600

July 4th Parade & FunFest – Greater Brandon Action Network
2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | FL
July 4th Parade & FunFest – Greater Brandon Action Network
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds with a patriotic parade followed by a jam-packed FunFest featuring live music, contests, a petting zoo, pony rides, food trucks, and more — all completely free. Whether you’re competing in the Chili Cook-Off, taking a dunk tank splash, or just soaking in the community spirit, there’s something for the whole family.
Date and Time: Friday, July 4, 2026 | Parade: 10:00 AM | FunFest immediately following
Location: Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, 215 Sydney Washer Road, Dover, FL
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Free admission, free parking
Activities Include: Parade, live music, Chili Cook-Off, dunk tank, Cherry Pie Eating Contest, Adult Watermelon Eating Contest, petting zoo, pony rides, kids activities, vendors, exhibitors, food trucks
Contact: greaterbrandonactionnetwork.com

4th of July Celebration – Dinosaur World
2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | FL
4th of July Celebration – Dinosaur World
Celebrate Independence Day surrounded by hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs at Dinosaur World in Plant City, just minutes from Tampa. Enjoy live acoustic music, classic American food, free patriotic giveaways, fossil digs, and scenic walking trails through prehistoric exhibits — a one-of-a-kind Fourth of July for the whole family.
Date and Time: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Live Music 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Location: Dinosaur World, 5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, FL 33565
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Tickets required (purchase online at dinosaurworldinc.ticketspice.com; all sales final, no refunds)
Activities Include: Live acoustic music by Greg Smith, food from Heifers Be Trippin’ (burgers, hot dogs, and more), free patriotic giveaways (American flags, festive beads, holiday accessories — while supplies last), life-sized dinosaur exhibits, fossil digs, scenic walking trails, hands-on attractions
Contact: (813) 717-9865

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – 4th of July Celebration
2026-07-04 10:00 - 17:00 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, 33612, United States
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – 4th of July Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with world-class thrill rides, the brand-new Wild Skies Drone Show, and a dazzling fireworks finale choreographed to patriotic music over SheiKra at Festival Field. Pass Members 21+ get two complimentary 7 oz beers per day at Claw Island, all guests 21+ receive one free pour, and $5 wines are available at select locations through summer. Plus, Buy 2 patriotic merchandise items and get the 3rd FREE.
Date and Time: Friday, July 4 – Sunday, July 6, 2026 (Wild Skies Drone Show with extended patriotic fireworks finale all three nights — weather permitting; check daily show schedule for showtimes)
Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612
Age: All ages (family friendly)
Cost: Included with park admission; tickets required (buschgardens.com/tampa/tickets)
Activities Include: Wild Skies Drone Show with special 4th of July extended patriotic fireworks finale, Moto Motion Freestyle Showdown, world-class roller coasters with extended summer hours, complimentary beer (21+), $5 wine at select locations, patriotic merchandise (Buy 2 get 3rd free)
