Community Corner
Fourth of July Festivities in Safety Harbor
A parade, a patriotic ceremony and a giant fireworks display highlight the holiday in the Harbor.
Summer is traditionally the slow season in Florida as far as outdoor activities go.
But there's one thing that brings people out in droves during the height of the hot and humid season - the Fourth of July.
Safety Harbor's Fourth of July festivities may end with an incredible fireworks display, but they begin a lot earlier and basically last the whole day.
The fun kicks off at 10 a.m. as American Legion Post #238 hosts a parade downtown.
The event, which runs from 2nd Avenue to the post at 9th Avenue South, will be followed by a patriotic presentation at the John Wilson Park Gazebo at approximately 10:45 a.m.
The presentation will be highlighted by appearances from military officials, Santa's Drill team, patriotic music and other activities.
"Our legion is the only one I know of that sponsors a city Fourth of July parade," legion member Dave Fairman said. "So we're real proud of that."
After the Main Street festivities are finished, the action shifts to the marina, where the prelude to the fireworks display kicks off at 5 p.m.
Children's activities, live music, food, beer and wine vendors and prime fireworks viewing from the new waterfront park will all be found at the marina.
Be advised the pier will be closed during the fireworks display, which is set to begin at 9 p.m.; Marina Drive and South Bayshore Boulevard from Main Street to 7th Avenue South will also be closed from 3:30 - 10:30 p.m.
City special events supervisor Joe Cooper said patrons should arrive early and park only in designated areas.
"Parking is available in city lots, on Main Street and and side streets, but people must be aware of the new parking restrictions on certain streets."
The restrictions, which went into effect last week, were enacted on side streets where there weren't any previous 'no parking' restrictions on either side of the street.
After the Fourth there's another event taking place the next morning for those who want to help keep the town clean.
"Partners in Parks is asking people to show up at the waterfront park at 8 a.m. to help with the cleanup of the fireworks debris," Cooper said.
When asked if there would be a lot to clean up, he replied, "It depends on which way the wind blows that night!"
Note: In the case of inclement weather, Cooper said they will make every attempt to get the fireworks off Thursday night, even if it means a lengthy delay. Should the display have to be cancelled, it will be rescheduled for Friday night at 9 p.m. There would be no additional activities in that case.
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