Where to go for Fourth of July Fun and Fireworks in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach

By Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach on May. 28, 2026

Fourth of July Events FAQs

There's something a bit magical about spending the Fourth of July on the waters of Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach. Whether you're watching fireworks light up the sky over Charlotte Harbor from a boat, cheering on a boat parade from the marina, or staking out a spot on the lawn with a cold beer and a plate of festival food, we know how to celebrate. Here's where to find the fun:

On Land

Fireworks over Lemon Bay in Englewood, Florida

Fourth-Fest 2026

Fourth-Fest at Laishley Park will feature Water-Mania waterslides, vendors, festival food, cold beer, and more, starting at 3 pm with the elaborate fireworks show over the harbor starting at 9 pm.

Charlotte Harbor July 4th Boat Parade

Laishley Marina will be home to a boat parade, starting at 11 am. If you've got a boat, you're welcome to join in the fun. If not, the shoreline is a perfectly great place to wave flags and cheer. Details on Facebook.

A Few Tips for Fourth-Fest and the Boat Parade

Parking near Laishley Park fills up quickly: arrive early or consider rideshare
Bring a blanket or lawn chairs for the fireworks show
Most waterfront spots will be busy by early afternoon, so grab your table or your patch of grass while you can
Don't forget the sunscreen

Fishermen's Village

Fishermen's Village goes all out for their 4th of July celebration with family-friendly festivities that build toward fireworks over the harbor, beginning at 9 pm.

TT's Tiki Bar

Don't miss TT's biggest 4th of July Celebration ever. The fun kicks off at 1 pm and continues with a front-row seat to the fireworks, starting at 9 pm.

The Wyvern Hotel

There's still time to make reservations for the Wyvern Hotel's Stars, Stripes & Summer Nights event, held at Perch 360. There are no better views of the fireworks!

Fireworks over Lemon Bay in Englewood

The fireworks will launch from Blind Pass Beach on July 4th and light up the skies above Lemon Bay beginning at 9:05pm. Arrive early for the best viewing spots around Lemon Bay and nearby beaches. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, patriotic attire and plenty of community spirit.

On the Water

Fireworks over Charlotte Harbor in Punta Gorda, Florida King Fisher Fleet's Sunset and Fireworks Cruise

Few things top watching Fourth of July fireworks from the water. A Sunset and Fireworks Cruise with King Fisher Fleet is a perennial favorite and fills up fast, so don't wait to reserve your spot.

Punta Gorda Adventures Fireworks Cruise

Punta Gorda Adventures is running all-day BYOB cruises on the 4th, culminating with their Punta Gorda Adventures Fireworks Tiki Cruises.

However you choose to spend the day, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach puts on a real celebration all are welcome to attend.

Fourth of July Events FAQs

Is Fourth-Fest free?

Yes! Admission to Fourth-Fest is free, with donations appreciated.

Visit the Event Page

Is there a charge for the Water Slides at Fourth-Fest 2026?

Yes. A $10 wristband gets you unlimited access to the Water-Mania slides.

Is there a VIP section for Fourth-Fest?

Yes. Limited VIP access levels are listed under the Sponsorship tab.

Sponsorship/VIP Information for Fourth-Fest 2026 (PDF)

Where do I park for Fourth-Fest 2026?

You've got several good options:

A parking lot sits next to the park, in front of the Laishley Crab House
Unless otherwise marked, free parking is available at the Charlotte County Justice Center, located just southeast of the park on the south side of the Vietnam Wall of Southwest Florida.
A free parking garage is located at 117 Herald Court in Punta Gorda, about half a mile from Laishley Park
Free street parking is also available throughout downtown Punta Gorda

Pay attention to all posted signs.

Herald Court Centre Public Parking Garage

Is Fishermen's Village Fourth of July Event Free?

Yes, the Fishermen's Village Independence Day Celebration offers free admission and free parking.

Note: there is a nominal fee for activities.

Author

Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach

Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach was established in 1997 and supports local businesses by promoting Charlotte County as a premiere travel destination, domestically and internationally, to consumers, meeting planners, travel trade and sports-rights holders.
We advocate for and promote Charlotte County as a warm, welcoming, and beautiful destination with positive economic growth and a focus on the preservation of natural resources to build a sustainable future for visitors and residents alike.
Learn more on our About Us Page and visit our Events Page to stay up to date on happenings in the area.
Blog content is created and reviewed by our amazing staff, (locals of course!). Through our posts we share those “in the know” tips, the “where the locals go” info, and the “places not to miss” to inspire travelers to visit. We share our knowledge by highlighting activities and events, the area’s unique natural appeal, and our prioritizing of conservation, sustainability, and accessibility. Our social media, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube in particular, focus on all there is to do, see, and eat in the area. Social posts and videos are created and shared by the VCB, by visitors, and sometimes by sponsored travel writers (always disclosed).
Visit Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast, is Florida’s premier ecotourism destination, free from crowds and off the beaten path yet still offering the comfort and amenities discerning travelers seek. Our location on Charlotte Harbor means endless miles of natural shoreline and outdoor assets like beaches, nature preserves, and waterways of all kinds. Visitors can find unlimited outdoor pursuits like sailing, boating, world-class fishing, paddling, birding, biking, dining and arts. Come find out why “Our Best Side is Outside℠.”