Star Spangled Sparkman Returns with a Bang for July 4th

Sparkman Wharf is celebrating its 6th Annual Star Spangled Sparkman this Fourth of July. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, food and drink specials, a new VIP experience, and the perfect view of downtown Tampa’s July 4th events, including the annual Boom by the Bay fireworks finale.

It’s definitely one of our top picks for places to spend the Fourth . Keep reading to learn more about how you can celebrate at Star Spangled Sparkman and what to know before you go.

Events at Star Spangled Sparkman

This year’s events will include live entertainment, 360 photo station, DJ, Uncle Sam, a game zone, face painting, roaming performers, and food and drink specials. Guests will have a spectacular waterfront view of the riverfront fireworks show as one of Tampa Bay’s prime viewing locations.

You’ll also have front-row viewing of the annual Blessing of the Fleet, followed by the Boat Parade and Water Ski Show presented by Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk.

The parade route will be similar to their holiday light boat parade but will include a Water Ski Show to kick off the celebration, a poker run and a blessing station. Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for most patriotic boat! There will be prize bags for all registered boaters.

Schedule of Events:

4 pm: Star Spangled Sparkman kicks off with live DJs

6 pm: Water Ski Show presented by Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk

7:30 pm: Boat Parade Arrival at Sparkman Wharf

9 pm: Fireworks begin

NEW for 2024 – Premier Viewing Access

New this year, you can purchase Premier Viewing Access Tickets. Tickets include two drink tickets and two snack tickets redeemable at any of the select food and beverage vendors with access to a private bar for additional purchases. There will also be a hydration station with A/C, bleacher seating, private A/C restrooms, and private entrance to the Wharf. There will be an exclusive viewing experience with premium vantage points for the water ski show, boat parade, and fireworks show.

Tickets for the Premier Viewing Area are $100 for adults 21 and up and $80 for anyone under 21.

Event Details

When: July 4, 2024 from 4 pm-9:30 pm

Where: Sparkman Wharf, 615 Channelside Dr., Tampa

Cost: Cost to attend is free. Premier Viewing Tickets are $80-$100 and can be purchased here .

Parking:

• Channelside Garage – 369 South 12th St., Tampa
• Garrison Lot – 651 Channelside Dr., Tampa
• East Cumberland Garage – 1045 East Cumberland Ave., Tampa

Outside food, drinks, personal fireworks, and chairs are not permitted.