July 4 Fireworks Celebration safety reminders and road closures

June 26, 2026

The July 4 Fireworks Celebration will take place Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota. The fireworks display is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m.

The event is expected to bring thousands of people to the City of Sarasota.  The Sarasota Police Department is committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone.

Road Closures:

  • 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 4 through 4 a.m. on Sunday, July 5: Lemon Avenue will be closed from Main Street to Pineapple Avenue. This is for the Gator Club July 4th block party. The event runs from 5 p.m. on July 4 until midnight.
  • 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, July 4: Bayfront Drive (U.S. 41) will be closed from South Palm Avenue to Gulfstream Avenue for the fireworks display.

Parking Information: 

  • The Bayfront Park/Island Park parking lot will close once maximum capacity is reached.
  • Parking is prohibited in the grassy area on the south end of Bayfront Park.
  • Parking is not permitted in the median along John Ringling Boulevard. Drivers should obey all posted ‘No Parking’ signs.

Traffic Delays:

Following the fireworks display, traffic leaving the Bayfront and downtown areas will be subject to temporary traffic-control measures as part of a coordinated exit plan. Attendees should expect traffic delays of up to one hour when leaving the event area.

“The Fourth of July holiday is a time to come together with family and friends and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it safely,” said Sarasota Police Chief Rex Troche. “With thousands of people expected downtown, we encourage everyone to plan ahead, be patient with traffic, stay aware of their surroundings and make thoughtful, responsible decisions. As we celebrate, we also ask for grace and consideration for one another. Our officers will be working throughout the weekend, day and night, to help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone,” he said.

Safety Tips for the Holiday:

  • Plan Ahead: Have a Designated Driver
    • Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Always drive sober.  Even one alcoholic beverage may be too many.  If you have a friend who is about to drink and drive, take the keys away and let a sober driver get your friend home safely.
  • AAA Tow to Go: Tow to Go operates on most major holidays and offers a free ride to impaired drivers and their vehicles who do not have a safe alternative. According to AAA, since 1998, the program has successfully removed nearly 30,000 impaired drivers from the road, saving lives. Tow to Go is a free, confidential, local ride within a 10-mile radius of a safe location. This is offered beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, July 3, 2026, to 6 a.m. Monday, July 6, 2026, in Florida. Call 1-855-TOW-2-GO (1-855-286-9246) or visit AAA’s Tow to Go website here.
  • Heat Safety: Slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors. If you work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day.  Never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.
  • See Something, Say Something: Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn’t feel right, say something.  Be extra mindful of pedestrians, other drivers, children and bicyclists. Phones down, eyes up.
  • On the Water: Wear a life jacket. Stay sober on the water. Have a float plan. Check the weather. Don’t forget sunscreen. Stay hydrated.

The Sarasota Police Department encourages residents and visitors to plan ahead, obey traffic laws, stay hydrated, look out for each other and celebrate responsibly. The Sarasota Police Department wishes everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July.

Media contact: SPDNews@sarasotaFL.gov

 

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