Happy Fourth of July, Orlando.
In an effort to make this a fun, safe, and memorable holiday we’ve rounded up some of the best events and tips to get through this crazy day. But first, let’s take a minute to look at the legal stuff, like did you know that the State of Florida strictly regulates the sale and use of fireworks?
THE RULES:
- Lighting anything larger than a sparkler for the purpose of putting on a display, without a permit, is a misdemeanor in the State of Florida and you could face a $1,000 fine or a year in jail. Sparklers, as stated in Section 791.013 of the Florida Statue, includes devices like “snakes” or “glow worms,” smoke devices, party poppers, “booby traps,” “snappers,” or devices with paper caps like toy guns where the hand cannot contact the cap when exploding. Noisemakers are also allowed.
- Large events looking to have a fireworks show can apply HERE for a Special Event Fireworks Permit.
- The waiver you sign in the store when you buy the fireworks only protects the vendor, not you if you use the items for illegal purposes.
- According to City Code Section 42.06 – Noises from fireworks and show pyrotechnics are exempt from noise ordinances. But again, that’s only if they have a permit.
FIREWORKS SAFTEY:
Fireworks are a must-have for July 4 events, but they’re explosives; tiny, irresistible boomsticks that can really hurt you if you’re not careful and pay attention. In 2017, at least eight people died from fireworks accidents and over 12,900 others ended up in the emergency room. Here’s a list of ways to avoid hurting yourself today:
- Go see a professional fireworks show at one of the events at the bottom of this post. They get paid to blow things up. You probably bought your explosives from the back of a truck.
- Don’t give fireworks to children. Not just because they could hurt themselves, but they’re kids, they could hurt someone else just as easily. Keep them at least 30 feet away.
- Read the directions. If you’re too drunk, get someone else to read them and sit your butt back down and enjoy the show.
- Only light one firework at a time.
- Don’t relight a dud firework. Put it in a bucket of water and cuss into your drink like an adult.
- Keep a hose and a bucket of water nearby.
- Don’t put the firework in your pocket. Why are we even telling you this?
- Sparklers burn at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. That can melt glass.
- Click HERE for more safety tips from the City of Orlando.
PETS:
- Your pets don’t like fireworks. Leave them at home and give them CBD oil or something. If your dog gets out, like Beulah did, let us know and we’ll help you find them.
- Also, HERE is a link to some videos that are supposed to relax your pet during firework displays and thunderstorms. Designate a safe space for them to chill out and play some soft music to block out some of the noise. Play with them to distract them and to burn off some of that anxious energy.
- Make sure your pet has current ID tags with your updated contact information. Animal shelters across the country see a 30-40 percent increase in lost pets between July 4-6, with July 5 being one of the busiest days of the year.
BEST-BET EVENT PICKS:
Independence Bash – Presented by Baldwin Park & Florida Hospital
This FREE event will kick off with a festival in the Village Center of Baldwin Park hosted by Baldwin Park Joint Committee and sponsored by Florida Hospital. At 9:15 pm, view spectacular choreographed fireworks show over Lake Baldwin.
Red, White & Brew Block Party!
Wall Street’s throwing not one, but two nights of block parties for the country’s birthday! The fun starts at 9 pm on July 3rd and 4 pm on July 4th, with $4 drink specials on all Sam Adams beers, great food, outdoor games and tons of red, white and blue giveaways – plus live music from LUVU & DJ Korndogg.
4th of July Fireworks Show!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful view from the comfort of your reserved table with full service at World of Beer. Your reserved table comes with two select beers per person and one of our famous Giant German Pretzels with beer cheese! These tables go fast so yours soon!
23rd Annual 4th of July Celebration
Commissioner Sarah Sprinkel will lead the event from the main stage which will include an “Oath of Allegiance” naturalization ceremony. The ceremony will include remarks regarding the history of this monumental day, as well as congratulate our new American citizens on their historic milestone.
Cars & Stripes Show
Kick off your Downtown Orlando 4th of July celebrating with a FREE car show. Come to see some of the coolest cars all in one place, and enjoy music by DJ Don from Cruisin Orlando. All cars welcome.
Fourth of July Science Celebration
This Fourth of July, the Science Center is combining history and science in a series of activities that bring out the best of this patriotic holiday! There will not be fireworks at this event, but we’ll help you beat the heat between your barbeques and celebrations. Guests will have access to all four floors of interactive exhibit halls, theaters and more.
Fireworks & Floats July 4th
“This year we are stoked to have live music with @Sean Holcomb •Cold Beer •Refreshing Cocktails •Pot Luck @ 4p (We supply the meat!) •Live Music •Fun in the Sun •Floats, Boats, Paddleboards and more on Lake Ivanhoe & finally •Fireworks over Orlando with the best view in town.”
July 4th Summer Picnic
“Join us Wednesday, July 4th for a once-a-year Summer Picnic hosted by The Ravenous Pig! Chef created an All-American menu with all the backyard-bbq favorites. Reserve a table with friends, sit at the bar or walk in for Taproom seating.. the Summer Picnic menu will be offered at every seat.”
Fireworks at the Fountain
Save the date and join Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer at Lake Eola Park on July 4 for the annual Fireworks at the Fountain. Festivities will begin at 4 p.m. and include a kids play area, live music, beer garden, and food and beverages available for purchase. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display in celebration of our nation’s freedom.
Independence Day Celebration
Enjoy live music, drink specials all night and food trucks to treat your taste buds.
Merica Trivia!
Come to crush some beers and Lobstahhhh while playing trivia on the 4th! We’re starting and ending early this week so you can walk to Eola for the fireworks at 9:00!
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