The 4th of July is right around the corner, but this year, it’ll be a little different, and a lot more special. This year will celebrate the 250th year since the nation’s founding. In celebration of this special occasion, a variety of fun and fascinating events are set to take place in the area. Looking to visit Gulf Shores during the best time of year? Then follow along with us as we take you through some of the best local events celebrating the 4th of July in Gulf Shores.
City of Gulf Shores Fireworks Show and Stars and Stripes Celebration
The City of Gulf Shores’ official 4th of July Fireworks Celebration is sure to be the centerpiece of the holiday festivities in the area. This event is set to take place all weekend, starting on July 3. The event will include live music, local art, and food from a variety of vendors, making for a fun, classic summer celebration at the Gulf State Park Pier. Starting at 8 AM on the 4th, the Pier will be closed to the public before starting the fireworks show at 9 PM.
The Wharf in Orange Beach
Just over in Orange Beach, you can enjoy another fireworks celebration down at The Wharf. Taking place on Main Street from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., kids’ activities here will include bounce houses, an inflatable obstacle course, camel rides, and more! While you’re there, you’ll also get the chance to see patriotic appearances from Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam. The night wraps up with fireworks at 9 p.m., followed by a drone show, and ending with the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience. The great thing about this event is that it actually takes place on July 2, so you can attend without having to choose between other celebrations on the holiday itself. While admission for this event is free, some activities may cost $5 to $10, so be sure to bring some extra cash to fully enjoy the fun.
Shark Run
Get in some exercise and show Gulf Shores what you’re made of at this fun annual race! The Shark Run 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run will also take place at The Wharf and is open to runners of all skill levels and experience. All races are set to begin at 7 AM, with a $43 registration price for the 5K, while the 1 Mile Fun Run’s registration price is set at $20. All participants will receive a medal to commemorate their participation, but if you’re one of the first 250 people to register, you can grab a custom-designed Shark Run t-shirt! Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or simply take a leisurely stroll, this event is a great way to break up the holiday by working up a sweat.
Flora-Bama 4th of July Party
You were likely to visit this local favorite on your trip to Gulf Shores, so why not do it during one of their biggest annual events? Flora-Bama, one of the area’s most popular beach bars, is once again hosting a full day of fun events, including live music, good food, and more. Aside from a fireworks celebration right on the beach on the 4th, Flora-Bama’s 4th of July Party will also feature the Miss Firecracker Bikini Contest and the Freedom Run, a 4-mile run/walk set to take place on the 5th, with free registration. Spend some time at this celebration to find out why Flora-Bama is one of the area’s most beloved establishments.
Star Spangled 250th Spectacular at Downtown OWA
A little under 30 minutes away in Foley is where you can enjoy a full day of fun with this resort-style celebration. Running from 2 PM to 9 PM on July 4th, The Star Spangled 250th Spectacular kicks off with a live DJ on the Splashpad before launching into a full day of fun and unique events, including a scavenger hunt, watermelon eating contest, a parade, and a live chainsaw artist. This high-energy affair will end the night with a spectacular fireworks show for all to enjoy. While there is a bit of distance from this celebration, this event may be best for those who really want to go all out for the 4th of July in the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Book Your Holiday Trip to the Alabama Gulf Coast
Now that you have an itinerary of fun celebrations for the holiday, all that is left to do is to find a place to stay. Here at Bender Vacation Rentals, we make the whole process easy, with accommodations for just about any renter and vacation style. From beachfront rentals to stunning condos with views of the ocean, our portfolio of properties is sure to include what you need to make the most of your visit to Gulf Shores. Book direct with Bender Vacation Rentals to save big on your next stay and get in on all our latest deals and specials.