Join the July 4th Spectacle: St. Augustine's Fireworks Over Matanzas!

St. Augustine, Florida, USA - This year, the City of St. Augustine is gearing up for an extraordinary Independence Day celebration with its annual „Fireworks Over the Matanzas“ event on July 4, 2025. A highlight of the weekend, this beloved tradition invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy a dazzling fireworks show set against the stunning backdrop of Matanzas Bay.

As it has for many years, the evening kicks off with a performance by the All-Star Orchestra, starting at 6 p.m. in the Plaza de la Constitución. This two-hour concert will be a delightful blend of big band, swing, and patriotic music, guaranteed to get everyone in the festive spirit. According to St. Augustine, the fireworks display itself will illuminate the night sky at 9:30 p.m., lasting for a spectacular 20 minutes, featuring over 5,000 individual shells launched in perfect synchrony with the accompanying music.

Viewing Locations and Safety Regulations

Fireworks will be visible from iconic sites including the Castillo de San Marcos and the Bridge of Lions, making these locations ideal spots for viewing. For those looking to enjoy the fireworks from the water, local boat tours from providers like St. Augustine Sailing and Fury Water Adventures promise a unique vantage point—but remember, a designated no-boats safety zone will be in effect, requiring all vessels to clear the area by 6 p.m.

Attendees should plan to arrive early to secure parking, as traffic rerouting will begin around 8 p.m. with several street closures enforced. The city will prioritize pedestrian safety on streets such as Avenida Menendez and Cathedral Place, so be prepared for a lively, bustling downtown ambiance.

Parking for the event will be free in city-owned lots and on-street spaces on July 4, with the Historic Downtown Parking Facility charging $20 per car—or just $3 for those with a ParkStAug registered license plate. For those needing to park but wishing to skip the hassle, convenient shuttle services will be running from various locations on Anastasia Island, including the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and R.B. Hunt Elementary School, from 6 p.m. to midnight.

More Than Just Fireworks

The Fourth of July celebrations in St. Augustine go beyond the fireworks. The city will also host the First Friday Art Walk, presenting local artists and their work from 5 to 9 p.m., and a captivating sideshow at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum from 6 to 7 p.m. Plus, for music lovers, the free Oakfest series kicks off on July 3 at Colonial Oak Music Park, featuring family-friendly concerts.

Food enthusiasts will find plenty of dining options to enjoy with a view. Recommended restaurants include Meehan’s Irish Pub and O.C. White’s, which offer outdoor seating perfect for catching the evening’s festivities. If you prefer something outside the downtown hustle, check out the various offerings at Marina Munch Food Truck Park or Pesca by Michael’s.

Given all that St. Augustine has planned for this Independence Day, it’s clear that residents and visitors can expect a resounding celebration filled with joy, music, and stunning visuals. As always, the success of „Fireworks Over the Matanzas“ is supported not just by the City of St. Augustine, but also by the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council, making this event a true community endeavor.

If you’re eager for a memorable 4th of July filled with excitement and community spirit, St. Augustine is certainly the place to be!

For further details on parking, shuttles, and traffic rerouting, be sure to visit the city’s official website, and embrace the festive atmosphere as we honor Independence Day in style.