St. Pete Fireworks: What to Know for July 4

Planning to catch the free fireworks over St. Petersburg’s waterfront Saturday, July 4?

Here are a few things St. Pete city officials say spectators need to know in advance of the big show:

When the Sky Lights Up

The city says the fireworks could start as early as 8:30 p.m. or as late as 10. The hope is to get the show under way by 9 p.m., but weather may force the fun earlier or later.

Where to Watch

City officials say some of the best viewing will be along Bayshore Drive with “prime viewing locations from Vinoy, North and South Straub, Spa Beach and Albert Whitted parks.”

When to Arrive

The recommendation is to arrive early to beat the crowds and then head over to North Straub Park to meet Raymond and the Rays Street team from 6 to 9 p.m.

What to Bring

The city says blankets and lawn chairs are great ideas, but alcohol and personal fireworks are not. Leave those items at home.

Parking Places

There are several recommendations on parking:

• The Sundial garage, 117 Second St. N., $10 for the day
• South Core garage, 101 First Ave. S., $10 for the day
• Beach Drive or Pelican lots, cost is $5 all day
• Disabled parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis at the North Shore ball field lot, 901 North Shore Drive, and along the east side of Beach Drive.
• Bike racks are available at the North Shore pool, north of the Museum of Fine Arts, and on First Avenue South near Al Lang Stadium

Street Closings/Traffic

Downtown residents and visitors are being warned to anticipate heavy traffic from about Coffee Pot Boulevard to Fifth Avenue South between the hours of 8 and 10 p.m.

Road closings and/or delays are expected along Bayshore Drive Northeast between Second and Fifth Avenues Northeast. To avoid congestion, the city suggests saying east of Eighth Street.

For more information, visit www.stpeteparksrec.org/events.html.

The city of St. Petersburg was recently named the 10th-best place in the country to celebrate the 4th of July when it comes to “bang for the buck.” Check out the story here.

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