15 Best Things to Do in Orlando for 4th of July 2024
LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO FOR 4TH OF JULY?
You’ve come to the right place! We’ve been visiting Florida since 2016 and have spent months living in Florida. Orlando is such a fun place to visit, and all the festivities surrounding the 4th of July just make it that much better.
It can be difficult to navigate holiday events in a town you’re unfamiliar with, which is why we’ve done all the hard work, pulling together a list of the best things to do in Orlando for 4th of July.
All you have to do is make sure you pack some red, white, and blue as we detail all you need to know about the top Independence Day celebrations in Orlando.
Things to Do in Orlando for 4th of July
1. Fireworks at the Fountain
When: July 4, 5 pm – 10 pm (Fireworks at 9:15 pm)
Where: Lake Eola
Cost: Free
Lake Eola in downtown Orlando is the place to be for one of the most epic 4th of July celebrations! The Lake Eola Fireworks at the Fountain event is one of the top things to do in Orlando for 4th of July, so definitely keep it in mind when planning which celebration to attend.
Not your run-of-the-mill community celebration; organizers and attendees alike take this event seriously. The live entertainment displayed during the celebration is of the highest caliber and adds to the magic of the moment, celebrating our country’s independence.
The event itself doesn’t officially begin until 5 pm, but if you’re looking for an area to spend the full day, Lake Eola Park is a great option. Home to the legendary Walt Disney Amphitheater, you might be able to catch a performance there. The 4th of July is also the perfect day to rent a swan paddle boat and enjoy views of the Orlando skyline.
Kids will love goofing around on the playground; there are plenty of picnic areas if you want to bring lunch along.
Be sure to check out the iconic sculptures and fountains here. They are stunning. You can feed the swans, too; just be sure to purchase the swan-safe food from the variety of vendors in the park.
2. Red Hot & Boom
When: July 3, 4 pm – 11 pm (Fireworks at 9:30)
Where: Cranes Roost Park – Uptown Altamonte
Cost: Free
Another one of the top things to do in Orlando for 4th of July is the Red Hot & Boom event. A staple Independence Day event since 1998, this celebration takes place at Cranes Roost Park, which is in Altamonte Springs, about 25 minutes north of Orlando.
Famous for its larger-than-life fireworks display, this event also boasts some fun live music, a wide range of activities for kids and families, and some exceptional Florida food.
Be sure to check the event’s website as the event draws closer for specific details regarding musical acts, food vendors, and rules/regulations for attending the event.
3. Monumental 4th of July
When: July 4, Parade at 9 am, Independence Day Spectacular at 5 pm (Fireworks at 9:20 pm)
Where: Lakefront Park in Kissimmee
Cost: Free
Monumental 4th of July in Kissimmee parties all day! The celebrations begin early at 9 a.m. with a parade. This is a wonderful event to attend, especially if you have younger kids who would enjoy it.
There’s nothing quite like the excitement surrounding an old-school parade, especially on such a special day.
The Independence Day Spectacular festivities begin at 5 pm at Lakefront Park. Live music will be performed on the festival lawn, as well as an area specifically for the kids to play and have a good time.
There will be no need for hungry bellies as lots of food trucks and beverage options will also be available throughout the park.
Fireworks start at 9:20 pm, and it promises to be an amazing show!
4. Red, White & Blue Americana
When: July 4, 8 am – 10 pm
Where: Downtown Winter Garden
Cost: Free
The Downtown Winter Garden takes Independence Day seriously, and its patriotic appearance reflects that! Every 4th of July, the garden is decorated in shades of red, white, and blue to honor the country and reflect on the charming years past.
Festivities begin early in the morning with a pancake breakfast followed by the American Kids Parade. Youngsters are the star of the show, encouraged to wear their favorite patriotic colors or gear to walk or scooter around historic downtown as part of the parade.
Just like parades of old, sitting on the curb watching the children march by is one of the most fun things to do in Orlando for 4th of July. The Party in the Park happens later in the evening as the town celebrates America’s birthday in style. There will be live music and lots of fun family activities.
Your family will be glad you chose this Independence Day celebration when you’re settling into your chair and stretched out on a blanket, enjoying a stunning fireworks show over Lake Apopka.
5. Red, White and Boom
When: July 4, 7 pm – 10 pm
Where: Waterfront Park in Downtown Clermont
Cost: Free
Downtown Clermont plays host for the Red, White, and Boom 4th of July celebration. You’ll have to drive a little over half an hour to the west from Orlando to attend these festivities, but the short drive is worth it!
Located along the coast of Lake Minneola, this is a beautiful setting for a fireworks show. It’s mesmerizing to see the colored streaks in the sky reflected on the smooth water’s surface!
Before the show starts, families will enjoy face painting, food vendors, and a DJ sure to spin some awesome music to keep the party rolling.
We recommend getting to any of these events early to guarantee you’re able to snag a great spot for the fireworks show. You won’t have a problem staying busy at Waterfront Park while you wait; families can have fun splashing on the lake or lounging on the shore. The park also has a paved trail, perfect for walking, biking, or even skating!
6. Star Spangled Sanford
When: July 4, 7 pm – 10 pm (fireworks at 9:15 pm)
Where: Fort Mellon Park & Riverwalk
Cost: Free ($2 per person for splash pad admission)
The Star Spangled Sanford celebration is one of the biggest fireworks displays in Central Florida.
It takes place at Fort Mellon Park and along the riverwalk area in downtown Sanford, which is about 30 minutes north of Orlando.
One of the best things to do in Orlando for 4th of July, this Independence Day celebration includes free family activities, including a Kids Zone just for the young ones. There will be food and drink vendors and a DJ, as well as street performers along the riverwalk, keeping the atmosphere popping with amazing tunes.
Festivities start at 7 p.m., but the park is open all day. So, if you’re looking for a place to spend the day, Fort Mellon is an excellent choice.
There’s tons of green space to enjoy, basketball courts, a massive playground structure, and a splash pad (requires paid admission). This is also a popular spot to rent boats or jet skis and enjoy some time on the water before the big celebration in the evening.
Bring your backpack beach chair to set up on the lawn to enjoy the show in ultimate comfort. And when it comes time for the spectacular fireworks display, it’s such a beautiful sight to see the colors scattered across the sky over Lake Monroe.
7. Old Town Kissimmee & Fun Spot America Celebration
When: July 4, 12 pm – 10 pm (Fireworks at 9 pm)
Where: Fun Spot America Kissimmee & Old Town Main Stage
Cost: Fun Spot America Admission (Rates may vary, based on holiday deals and packages)
Fun Spot America is a popular theme park in the Orlando area. When looking for things to do in Orlando July 4th weekend, check out this place. With bumper cars, go-kart tracks, and one of the world’s tallest sky coasters, it’s one amazing place for family fun.
On the 4th of July, Fun Spot America teams up with Old Town Kissimmee to offer the super fun combo. You can purchase wristbands for your family at Fun Spot America to enjoy the attractions there and then you can enjoy music, food, and otherwise patriotic festivities (including fireworks) at the Old Town Main Stage, just near the park.
8. Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky
When: July 3rd & 4th, 9:20 pm
Where: Disney’s Magic Kingdom
Cost: Park Admission
As you can imagine, spending time in Disney World is one of the most highly enjoyed things to do in Orlando for the 4th of July. The happiest place on earth cranks things up when it comes to their Magic Kingdom fireworks display, Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.
Overall, this is the best fireworks show you’ll find at Disney World. The display offers a 350-degree effect and is very impressive. The accompanying music strikes the perfect balance of patriotism and classic Disney joy.
Keep in mind that though the fireworks are amazing, this is a very popular place to spend the 4th of July, so expect massive crowds.
You will want to plan hours ahead of time to stake out a place to enjoy the show. Some of the best viewing areas include in front of Cinderlla’s Castle (though being that close makes the view somewhat obstructed) or near the Partners Statue.
Keep in mind both of these areas fill up hours in advance before the fireworks begin. It’s a very crowded area to view, and the crowd congestion will make it difficult to get out of the area following the show.
If you don’t mind being a bit further away from the action, Main Street may be a more comfortable place for families to enjoy the fireworks show. Whether you find a spot midway up the street, near the end, or clear up at the Main Street USA Train Station, it’s one of the best vantage points in the park.
Stopping by the Carousel of Progress and the Hall of Presidents are fun patriotic things to do in Orlando for 4th of July. Both of these Magic Kingdom attractions have special connections to the United States and Independence Day.
9. The Heartbeat of Freedom
When: July 4, 9 pm
Where: Disney’s Epcot
Cost: Park Admission
While Magic Kingdom may have the most impressive fireworks show at Disney World, EPCOT gets the award for most patriotism. If you’re looking for a theme park experience beaming with red, white, and blue pride, EPCOT is the place to be.
The world-renowned Spaceship Earth will undergo a transformation for the holiday, sporting a patriotic appearance similar to the American Flag. A visit to the American Adventure Pavillion to hear the performing group Voices of Liberty is one of the best things to do in Orlando for 4th of July. The Americana in the Rotunda experience is the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day.
The American Adventure show performed at the World Showcase Pavillion tells a beautiful story about America and is another great way to celebrate the holiday with your family in the park. Also, splurging on one (or more) of the tasty Independence Day-themed treats available in EPCOT is one of the top things to do in Orlando July 4th weekend!
The Heartbeat of Freedom fireworks display in EPCOT is shorter than what you would see in Magic Kingdom. But what it lacks in timing, it makes up in quality, as this show is intense and spectacular. Fireworks will go off around the World Showcase Lagoon as well as from the lagoon. It’s a show the whole family will enjoy.
As is our typical recommendation, you should plan to settle into a firework viewing spot at least two hours before the 9 pm showtime.
10. SeaWorld Orlando 4th of July Fireworks
When: July 4, 9 pm
Where: SeaWorld Orlando
Cost: Park Admission (reserved seating additional charge)
If you’d rather spend time with marine life this 4th of July, hop on over to SeaWorld Orlando. The fun presentation will happen over SeaWorld’s large central lake in the center of the park. Seating is available in the Bayside Stadium and along the shore of the lake.
The highlight of the night will feature an entertaining display of pyrotechnic colors that will awe and amaze, synchronized to some of your favorite patriotic songs. Aside from the fireworks display, families will have a blast at SeaWorld on the 4th of July.
The park’s Summer Spectacular events will keep your kids busy with highlights, including special animal shows, interactions, and thrilling rides!
11. Summer Celebration Fireworks Extravaganza
When: July 4, 9:15 pm
Where: Festival Field at Busch Gardens,
Cost: Park Admission
Not just a showstopper on the 4th of July, Busch Gardens in Orlando competes with the other area theme parks with a fireworks display every weekend throughout the summer.
The Summer Celebration Fireworks Extravaganza promises to wow audiences with colorful fireworks across the sky and fountains and special effects to keep your family’s sights on the stars!
Sure to still be busy, the Busch Gardens show at Festival Field may be a good alternative to Disney. It’s a good compromise if you’re looking for a theme park environment for the day, but you would better enjoy the experience with slightly fewer crowds.
12. Star Spangled Celebration
When: TBA, Fireworks on July 4 at 9:45 pm
Where: Sunset Walk Promenade
Cost: Free
The Star Spangled Celebration is typically a 4-day party on the Sunset Walk Promenade in Kissimmee, FL. Sponsored by area hotels and resorts, this celebration of America is known to bring some high-profile singers to headline their live performances and keep the patriotic grooves flowing.
Where to Watch Fireworks in Orlando 4th of July – Resorts
13. Lakes Alive Fireworks Show – The Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes Resort
When: July 4th, Fireworks at 9 pm
Where: Grande Lakes Orlando – DaVinci Lawn
Cost: Included in Resort Fees (only resort guests permitted)
If you’re looking for an amazing place to stay in Orlando that won’t even require you to leave the resort area to enjoy a true blue 4th of July celebration, consider staying at The Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes Resort.
Guests staying at the resort will be able to access an exclusive party on the Davinci Lawn, where kids can play on inflatable slides or in the pool. There will be fun Independence Day-themed games, live entertainment, and a fireworks show over Grande Lakes the whole family will enjoy!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes Resort
14. American Dream Pool Party
When: TBD
Where: Lake Nona Wave Hotel
Cost: Included in Resort Fees
In years past, the Lake Nona Wave Hotel has played host to an epic pool party on the 4th of July. The American Dream Pool Party is one of the top things to do in Orlando for the 4th of July.
The pool deck comes alive with live music or DJ-spun tracks. Guests at the hotel can expect some delicious food and frosty drink specials, too!
Check the hotel’s website for details on this year’s celebration as the date moves closer.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Lake Nona Wave Hotel
15. Star-Spangled Summer Splash Bash
When: July 4
Where: Encore Resort at Reunion
Cost: Included in Resort Fees
The Star-Spangled Summer Splash Bash at Encore Resort at Reunion is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Orlando for the 4th of July. Perfect for families, this event is known for kid-friendly games and crafts.
Adults and kids can participate in fun summer activities like popsicle and watermelon eating contests and a tie-dye t-shirt-making station. In recent years, they’ve even had someone from Gatorland on hand for animal demonstrations.
The weather will be hot, and so will the grill at this 4th of July celebration. Hot dogs, hamburgers, colorful drinks, and snow cones will be available to purchase and enjoy throughout the event.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Encore Resort at Reunion
Other Things to Do in Orlando on 4th of July
- The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art – Independence Day Celebration – The museum will offer free admission on 4th of July.
- AdventHealth July 4th Watermelon 5k – Start your independence day with a 5k at 7:30 am in Winter Park. Race to the finish line to score some ice-cold watermelon!
- AdventHealth Clermont Freedom 5k – If you prefer freedom over watermelon, downtown Clermont is also hosting a 5k at 7:30 am on July 4th.
FAQ: Things to Do in Orlando for 4th of July
Families often prefer the celebrations at area Orlando theme parks, including Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and LEGOLAND. These parks offer fun entertainment all day and stellar fireworks at night.
Yes! Both the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT have special 4th of July-themed fireworks presentations on Independence Day. A visit to EPCOT is really one of the best things to do in Orlando for 4th of July. The park goes all out with patriotic performances and treats!
July is a fun time to visit Orlando, given the number of family-friendly attractions and July events happening that month. Keep in mind that it is a hot, humid, and crowded month to visit, though.
The 4th of July is an extremely busy time to visit Disney World. However, it is also a fun time, with special celebratory treats available in the parks.
There’s a wide variety of places to watch 4th of July fireworks in Orlando. From theme parks to resorts and lakes, there’s bound to be a patriotic celebration in Orlando, perfect for your family.
The Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, SeaWorld, and Bush Gardens are some of the best places to watch beautiful fireworks in Orlando on the 4th of July.
Conclusion: Things to Do in Orlando for 4th of July
With Florida’s beautiful weather and so many different lively celebrations to choose from, Independence Day in Orlando is a match made in heaven for families.
Keep in mind that families who would rather celebrate in a more low-key fashion can spend the day in nature at Wekiwa Springs State Park, one of Florida’s best swimming lakes. Or venture out to one of the best beaches near Orlando.
Wherever you end up, we hope you have a memorable 4th of July in Orlando! Let us know which of the things to do in Orlando for 4th of July sounds most fun to you!
