🎆 Friday, July 4 – Independence Day Festivities

  • Fireworks at the Fountain (Lake Eola Park, 4–10 PM; fireworks scheduled at 9:10 PM)
    Orlando’s signature July 4 celebration kicks off at 4 PM with live music, food vendors, kid-friendly zones (bubble fun, face painting, balloon animals), and a special photo-op celebrating Orlando’s 150th birthday. Sunset brings a magnificent fireworks display set to the Orlando Concert Band’s performance bungalower.comvisitorlando.com+10orlando.gov+10orlando.gov+10.

  • Star Spangled Sanford (Fort Mellon Park & Sanford Riverwalk, 7–10 PM; fireworks ~9:15 PM)
    A beloved local tradition featuring food trucks (open by 6 PM), live music hosted by K92.3’s Jay Edwards, kids’ zones, cirque-style performers (7–9 PM), and a dynamic fireworks show over Lake Monroe with thousands of choreographed effects sanfordfl.gov+3sanfordfl.gov+3historicdowntownsanford.com+3.

  • 4th of July Star Spangled Celebration (Promenade at Sunset Walk, Kissimmee, until 11:30 PM)
    An all-day festival featuring street performances, a car & truck show, DJs, laser-light effects, and nighttime fireworks visitorlando.com.

  • Stars, Stripes & V8s Celebration (Old Town, Kissimmee, July 4)
    Muscle cars and hot rods decorated for July 4, followed by a free fireworks display visitorlando.com.

Quick Tips:
Bring lawn chairs or blankets, arrive early (especially around Lake Eola or Sanford Riverwalk), pack water, bug spray, and keep an umbrella handy in case of summer rain orlandomagazine.com+1en.wikipedia.org+1.

📅 Saturday, July 5 – Markets, History & Jazz

Morning:

  • Explore a local farmers’ market: Lake Mary (9 AM–1:30 PM) or Sanford Magnolia Square (9 AM–1 PM) for fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and live tunes.

Midday:

  • Take a stroll or bike ride along the Cross Seminole Trail and Sanford Riverwalk. Consider kayaking, boating, or relaxing by Lake Monroe.

Afternoon:

  • Tour the charming Historic Bradlee-McIntyre House in Longwood (typically open second & fourth Sundays, but check for July availability).

Evening:

  • Cap the day with live outdoor jazz—check for the Mayor’s Jazz in the Park or a sweet jazz-night at a local venue.

📆 Sunday, July 6 – Cars, Culture & Water

Morning:

  • Visit Mecum Florida Summer Special (Osceola Heritage Park, Kissimmee)—a massive collector-car auction with show-worthy rides already on display starting July 9, but some makes may be around this weekend.

Late Morning:

  • Walk through the Osceola County Welcome Center & Museum in Kissimmee. Exhibits, historic Pioneer Village, and a short nature trail offer heritage charm.

Afternoon:

  • Cool off at Reunion Resort’s Water Park—enjoy slides, lazy rivers, and poolside relaxing.

Optional Sunset:

  • Head to Overlook Park (Oviedo) for serene lake views—ideal for a quiet paddle or end-of-day reflection.

Weekend Essentials

  • Arrive early to secure good spots at markets and fireworks shows.

  • Stay comfortable: sun protection, insect repellent, hydration, and weather readiness (umbrella/back-up plan).

  • Expect crowds around Lake Eola and Sanford—plan parking and exit strategies accordingly

And if you’re looking for things to do year round, check out our other blog!

Free and Budget Friendly Things To Do in Central Florida