Fireworks Over The Matanzas

(Photo by Mike Cubbedge)

St. Augustine’s Great July 4th Tradition Continues

6:00pm - Concert by The All Star Orchestra
8:30pm - Traffic detours begin
9:30pm - Fireworks!

Holidays are built around traditions and few holidays have more great family traditions than the Fourth of July: great food, outdoor band concerts, a day with friends and family, and of course, fireworks! They all come together in a grand celebration and there’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than in the Nation’s Oldest City.

First, there’s music

Starting at 6:00pm one of the region’s most popular big bands, The All Star Orchestra, returns to the Plaza de la Constitución for a two-hour show filled with Big Band and Swing music along with all the traditional patriotic favorites. The All Star Orchestra’s performance from the Plaza’s Gazebo runs from 6:00pm until 8:00pm. The concert is free and those attending should bring lounge chairs for seating.

And for real music lovers, remember Thursday's Plaza Concerts throughout the summer. To view the 2009 schedule, click here.

Then there’s fireworks!

Fireworks over the Matanzas, the highlight of St. Augustine’s traditional July 4th activities has become synonymous with celebrating Independence Day in the Nation’s Oldest City. The spectacular aerial display of pyrotechnics high over Matanzas Bay begins at 9:30pm.

The 20-minute display is tightly choreographed to a stirring soundtrack of great popular music delivered over an extensive sound system transforming the entire Bayfront between the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Temporary Bridge of Lions into a theatre of sight and sound.

Local radio station WFOY/1240-AM will provide a simulcast of the soundtrack so those viewing the display from any location will be able to fully experience Fireworks Over The Matanzas as long as they have a radio. Enjoy downtown after the show

Since July 4th falls on a Saturday this year, it is expected that many people will remain downtown at the conclusion of the show for a late dinner or to visit the shops that have learned the value of extended hours after the fireworks. Given the choice between spending time strolling downtown with friends and family or sitting in traffic wasting gas, more and more people are taking their time.

Have a great time with friends and family, but keep it safe and legal!