The 4th of July is one of the most exciting times to visit the Golden Isles, where community spirit, family fun, and spectacular fireworks light up the Georgia coast. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip, here’s a roundup of the best Independence Day celebrations in St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Brunswick to help you make the most of your holiday weekend.
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St. Simons Island hosts a full day of events designed to bring everyone together in celebration. The festivities kick off early with the Sunshine Festival, an energetic and family-friendly gathering at Pier Village.
- Sunshine Festival 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run: Start your day with some fitness and fun by joining the 5K race or the shorter fun run, both perfect for runners and walkers of all ages. Arts and
- Crafts Show: Browse unique local artwork and handmade crafts from regional artisans throughout the day.
- Patriotic Golf Cart Parade: Enjoy the colorful and festive parade featuring decorated golf carts cruising through the Village.
- Live Music and Local Food Vendors: Keep the energy high with live performances and sample delicious treats from a variety of food vendors.
The highlight of the day is the spectacular fireworks display at Neptune Park, lighting up the night sky over the water at around 9:00 PM. For the best view, bring blankets and chairs early to claim a prime spot along the waterfront.
You can learn more about the full schedule at the Golden Isles 4th of July Celebrations.
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Just a short drive from St. Simons, Jekyll Island offers its own stunning fireworks show. The best places to view the dazzling display are Great Dunes Beach Park and Oceanview Beach Park. The fireworks typically begin around 8:45 PM, making it an early and exciting option for families with young children.
For more details on Jekyll Island’s event, visit Jekyll Island Signature Events.
Brunswick’s celebration takes place at Mary Ross Waterfront Park, where you’ll find classic holiday activities for all ages:
- Games and activities for kids
- Food trucks offering a variety of tasty options
- Live music to keep the festive vibe going
- A delightful puppy parade starting at 5:30 PM - perfect for animal lovers!
More info can be found at Brunswick’s Downtown Development.
- Arrive early to events to secure good parking and prime viewing spots, especially for the fireworks.
- Bring chairs, blankets, and refreshments for comfort while you enjoy the shows.
- Plan for traffic - with so many visitors, roads can get busy, so allow extra time for your journey.
- Check local event updates before heading out, as schedules can sometimes change due to weather or other factors.
The 4th of July on St. Simons Island and its neighboring communities is more than just fireworks - it’s a full day of traditions, community spirit, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re running a 5K, enjoying live music, or simply soaking in the spectacular fireworks over the water, the Golden Isles provide an unforgettable Independence Day experience!
Be sure to check out our St. Simons Island rentals for your next island getaway!
