Venice’s annual Independence Day fireworks display will light up the night sky on Thursday, July 4. The fireworks will be shot from the South Jetty on July 4 shortly after 9 p.m. The free show will last an estimated 30 minutes. Although the Jetty and Jetty Jacks Refreshment Deck will be closed for safety, the fireworks display may be viewed on area beaches from Caspersen to Nokomis, as well as from other places around Venice. Another way to get a good view of the show is from the water. Boats should be at anchor by 8:30 p.m. on Independence Day; the Venice Inlet will be closed to boat traffic at 8:45 p.m. until about a half-hour after the display’s grand finale. The show typically draws 10,000-15,000 people. 

The South Jetty (Humphris Park) at 2000 Tarpon Center Dr., will close the day before (at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 3) to all vehicles, pedestrians and anglers so that Garden State Fireworks can set up. This closure includes the Jetty walkway, parking lot, Jetty Jacks concessions and restrooms through July 4.

Tarpon Center Drive will remain open, allowing all vehicle traffic to turn around at the entrance to the Jetty park. There will be message boards notifying motorists of the closures. Venice Police will have an outgoing traffic pattern in place to keep traffic flowing and intersections clear following the fireworks display. Police will also provide extra beach and water patrol for the weekend.

Beach spectators are strongly advised to not bring their own fireworks. With so many people, especially small children, individuals using fireworks can be extremely dangerous. It is also not a good place to bring pets. Dogs are not allowed at most places on the beach and the noise from fireworks is disturbing to them.

***In the event of inclement weather, please know that the fireworks show may be delayed. Please look to the City’s Facebook page (Venice, Florida Municipal Government), Twitter (@CityofVeniceFL), and this website's homepage for updates.