America’s birthday, the Fourth of July, is here, and every corner of the Coastal Empire is teeming with activities to help locals and tourists alike celebrate Independence Day with a bang. There are several celebrations occurring throughout the area, so if you’ve yet to figure out your Fourth of July plans, here’s a list of holiday happenings to take part in.
Savannah’s Waterfront will host their annual free Independence Day Celebration on Thursday, July 4 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Rousakis Riverfront Plaza. The 3rd Infantry Division Band from Ft. Stewart will perform. Now known as the “Best Band in the Land” the 3rd ID Band is a 40-member unit with several performing groups. Plans for Independence Day include performances by the New Orleans-style Brass Band, the Rock Band, and the Concert Band.
The annual Independence Day fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m. and last about 20 minutes. Spectators are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets, while coolers are discouraged. The show will take place from a barge in the Savannah River in front of the Savannah Convention Center.
Thompson Savannah Fourth of July parties
Thompson Savannah, the luxury hotel overlooking Savannah’s Eastern Wharf, will host two parties on Thursday, July 4. The first is a pool party at Thompson’s La Fête du Rosé pool deck at 12 p.m. Celebrate Independence Day poolside while enjoying the live beats from DJ Miss Paradise along with drink and frosé specials—including margarita popsicles and adult Capri-Suns—giveaways, and more.
After soaking up the sun all afternoon, head to Thompson’s rooftop bar, Bar Julian—which happens to be the tallest rooftop in Savannah—for a festive 4th of July party. Starting at 7 p.m., patrons can enjoy themed cocktails and drink specials while vibing to the energetic musical mixes from DJ Jason B James. At Bar Julian, you’ll be able to take in some of the best views of the fireworks overlooking River Street. It’s the perfect way to spend Independence Day.
Eastern Wharf Fourth of July community concert
Eastern Wharf is hosting a free community concert on Thursday, July 4 featuring a 90-minute performance by the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra. The event will last from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. culminating with spectacular views of the annual fireworks show provided by Savannah’s Waterfront.
Stars & Stripes
The patriotic party is rocking all weekend long at Plant Riverside District. Their annual Stars & Stripes Fourth of July celebration returns to Savannah’s entertainment district July 4–7 complete with games, live entertainment, and crafts and activities for the whole family. The festivities kick off on Thursday, July 4 with family games at MLK Park; live music courtesy of Sarah Poole, Individually Twisted and DJ Savage Sunday; and fun caricatures with Cartoon Taj and the riverside pavilions. The day will end with a spectacular fireworks show shining over the Savannah River at 9:30 p.m. The fun continues on Friday, July 5 with more family games and caricatures as well as captivating performances from Mily Kinner, Bob Taylor, the Parris Island Marine Band and more. Events on Saturday, July 6 include a champagne brunch at Myrtle & Rose at 11 a.m. and a tie-dye station at the pavilions from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., along with more musical entertainment. Sunday, July 7 will feature a second champagne brunch at Myrtle & Rose along with live performances from local and regional acts. Be sure to take advantage of food and drink specials all weekend long at Plant Riverside District’s many restaurants, bars and lounges.
Tybee Island Fourth of July events
Savannah’s beach, Tybee Island, is hosting an exciting slate of Independence Day events over the holiday weekend. The first is a community-wide bike parade on Thursday, July 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The parade will start and end at the island’s Memorial Park. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes and don their brightest red, white and blue attire for the ride. After the parade, head to the beach for the ultimate Independence Day beach bash. On the night of America’s birthday around 9:15 p.m., crowds will gather on South Beach by the pier for Tybee’s annual fireworks show. It’s a festive celebration during which fireworks will light up the sky dazzling attendees with their vibrant splendor. After the show, stick around on the island to take advantage of local drink and food specials. Fourth of July on the beach is always a Fourth of July well spent.
From July 4–6, beachgoers can enjoy live music from the iconic Pier and Pavilion along with tantalizing vodka cocktails from Zeros, a veteran-owned-and-operated company. The weekend lineup includes a live DJ during the day, Jacksonville biker band Big Engine on Friday, July 5 at 7 p.m., and Fleetwood Mac tribute band Landslide on Saturday, July 6 at 7:30 p.m.
Fort McAllister Independence Day Celebration
For history buffs, Fort McAllister’s Independence Day celebration is sure to delight. Taking place on Saturday, July 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this event presents a unique opportunity to travel back in time and celebrate the Fourth of July with the spirit of 1864. Marvel at enthralling living history demonstrations that will feature live musket firings and artillery displays. This traditional take on Fourth of July festivities will also include old-timey games and fresh watermelon.
