Let Freedom Ring over Marco Island this 4th of July

One of the most endearing traditions on Marco Island began 23 years ago by just a few local families equipped with only spirit and sparklers. The Marco Island “Uncle Sam’s Sand Jam” held each Independence Day on Residents Beach has become one of the most beloved community celebrations on the Island.

Hosted by the Marco Island Civic Association (MICA), this all-American, all-day event has fun, games, contests and excitement for kids of all ages! Though usually private, Resident’s Beach is open to all in celebration of America’s Birthday.

Bring your coolers, lounge chairs, sunscreen and umbrellas, and join in on tug of war, hula hooping, limbo, face painting and more! Whether you are a participant or an observer, the infamous hot dog eating contest, the “most patriotic” bathing suit contest and the unique and colorful sandcastle sculpting contest are can’t miss events.

As night falls, the gorgeous Marco Island sky is lit up with over $42,000 of fireworks in honor of our Nation. Dig your toes into the sand as the sensation stimulating fireworks performance unfolds over the Gulf of Mexico. What better way to wrap up the Independence day celebration than resting on the shores of one of the most beautiful islands in the world, enjoying the colors of freedom light up the sky from sea to shining sea.

Read all about how Marco Island celebrates the 4th, as told by the Naples News.

Resident’s Beach is located at 130 S Collier Blvd., Marco Island, Florida 34145. The celebration begins at 12 noon with fireworks starting around 9:00 PM.

If parades are your preference, you may be interested in heading just north of Marco Island to Naples for the City of Naples July 4th Parade and Fireworks Celebration.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of colorful and festive Independence Day themed floats as they glide through some of the area’s most popular streets. The patriotic parade’s route is from Broad Avenue South to Third Street South proceeding north to 5th Avenue South, east on 5th Avenue South, and South on 8th Street South past City Hall, ending at 8th Avenue South and 8th Street South.

The City of Naples 4th of July Firework Display begins at 9:00 p.m. at the Naples Pier. The popular presentation features a twenty minute display, complete with special effects that are musically choreographed to patriotic selections that are simulcast on the radio station WAVV 101.1 FM. You are invited to bring chairs or blankets to viewing spots in town, as the fireworks can be seen all along the Naples beach. This event is extremely popular, and with limited parking around the pier, be sure to get to the beach early to snag a spot.