TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) – Tampa’s most explosive party is back.

Sparkman Wharf is gearing up for its 7th annual Star Spangled Sparkman celebration, a family-friendly Fourth of July bash bursting with waterfront fireworks, festive food, and enough entertainment to keep everyone, from toddlers to TikTokers, smiling all night long.

Set against the glittering backdrop of Tampa Bay, the event kicks off Thursday, July 4, with festivities starting at 5 p.m. and a grand finale fireworks show lighting up the sky at 9 p.m. sharp. General admission is $10 for guests ages 2 and up, and early arrival is strongly encouraged—space is limited and the view is worth it.

What to Expect

This year’s red, white and blue blowout brings back fan favorites and adds a few fresh thrills:

• Live and roaming entertainment all evening long
• A game zone, face painting, and festive photo ops
• Waterfront views of the annual Blessing of the Fleet, the Boat Parade, and the Water Ski Show presented by Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk
• DJs from Classic Entertainment spinning from 5 to 9 p.m.

The culinary lineup is just as fiery as the pyrotechnics, with Sparkman’s resident restaurants and bars serving up special eats and drinks to fuel the fun.

Insider Tips

Leave the lawn chairs, pets, and sparklers at home, outside food, beverages, fireworks, and furry friends are not allowed. But bring your camera: there will be plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, from patriotic backdrops to fireworks reflections on the water.

Gates open at 11 a.m., but the main festivities begin at 5 p.m. at Sparkman Wharf, 615 Channelside Drive.

A Waterfront Tradition

Hosted by Strategic Property Partners, the annual event has become one of Tampa’s signature summer traditions, attracting locals and visitors alike for a modern take on Independence Day magic.

For parking info, visit waterstreettampa.com/parking.

Ready to feel the spark?
Learn more at SparkmanWharf.com and follow @SparkmanWharf on social media.