Celebrating the 4th of July in South Florida

Lots of great things to do on the 4th - almost every part of South Florida has its own fireworks show and celebration!

The image here is from the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce's Grove Stars on the 4th. It is the official signed art by Andrea Cordero of Arts and Minds Academy. She is a second year Junior. “This piece is meant to emulate the significance of Independence Day and the tropical ambience of Coconut Grove. The uppermost part of the peacock’s neck symbolizes the blue fraction of the flag, which signifies vigilance, perseverance and justice. Due to the peacocks instinctive beauty I decided to retain its appealing colors within the feathers. The peacock’s tailpiece was meant to show the balance and harmony between the bird and the flag. The palm tree resembles the refreshing scene of Coconut Grove and its seafront view. The peacock was meant to perch on the tree to deliver the sense of pride because it carries the American flag within its feathers.” - Andrea Cordero

51st Annual Key Biscayne 4th of July Parade: 11am. Watch Crandon Boulevard come alive with a whimsical parade of floats, high school marching bands and street entertainers in the style of a traditional small-town celebration. The day-long event also includes a fireworks presentation at sunset. Crandon Blvd., Key Biscayne, 305-361-5207. www.keybiscayne.fl.gov

An American Celebration: July 4th on Miami Beach: 7:30pm. The City of Miami Beach proudly presents its annual patriotic celebration of music and fireworks; free and open to the publc. Please come early and bring beach chairs and towels. No cooler or bottles are permitted on the beach. Ocean Dr. & 10th St., 305-672-1270.

Fourth of July at Bayfront Park: 4pm-9pm. Celebrate the birth of our great nation at downtown Miami’s Bayfront Park with a spectacular fireworks display, children’s activities, food and drinks. Bring the whole family! Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne Blvd., downtown Miami, 305-358-7550, www.bayfrontparkmiami.com

Grove Stars on 4th of July: 11am. Celebrate the Nation’s Birthday in Grove style, during the “Grove Stars on 4th of July,” featuring a children’s area, Roast Pig & Wild Boar Cook Off, free music and entertainment topped off by an exquisite fireworks display! Events in the Grove start at 11am with the Picnic at the Barnacle, scavenger hunt and hot dog eating contest in downtown Grove and followed by events at Peacock Park. 2820 McFarlane Rd., Coconut Grove, 305-444-7270. www.coconutgrovechamber.com

Gulfstream Park: 4pm-10pm. Live entertainment from the David Rey band from 7-9pm is just part of the fun at Gulfstream Park this Fourth of July! Fireworks at 9pm cap a great evening that includes an "All American Buffet" at Ten Palms Restaurant beginning at 5pm ($17.76 per person for buffet; call 954-455-6760 for reservations). US 1, Hallandale Beach, www.gulfstreampark.com