Coastal Georgia lights up each year to celebrate the nation’s independence across St. Simons Island, Brunswick, Jekyll Island, and Sea Island.
St. Simons Island 4th of July Celebration:
One of the biggest Fourth of July traditions in the region is the annual Sunshine Festival on St. Simons Island. The celebration usually includes a 5K run, arts and crafts vendors, food, live entertainment, and a huge fireworks display over the pier and Neptune Park. Fireworks typically begin around 9 p.m., and locals recommend arriving early because parking fills up quickly.
The best spots to watch the fireworks are near the pier and waterfront areas around Pier Village. Not to worry, you can get a peek from most resorts on the south end of the Island, including The Sea Palms Resort. You can also stop by the Golden Isles Welcome Center – St. Simons Island for visitor information, maps, and event details while exploring the Island.
Brunswick’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration:
Historic downtown Brunswick typically hosts a classic small-town Independence Day celebration with live music, food vendors, and waterfront festivities. It’s a fun option for visitors looking for a more relaxed patriotic atmosphere while still being close to the beaches and Islands. In Brunswick, the Old Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration at Mary Ross Waterfront Park includes fireworks, games like sack races and hula-hoop contests, and free watermelon for everyone.
Jekyll Island Independence Day Celebration:
Jekyll Island kicks off Independence Day with a parade. Participants are invited to decorate bikes, golf carts, pets – you name it! The Red, White & Bounce event offers water slides, bounce houses, local crafts, and live music. The night culminates in a stunning fireworks display at night, beginning around 9 p.m. The event takes place from noon to 6 p.m. at the Jekyll Island Beach Village. Fireworks display starts at 9 p.m.
Parking for Jekyll Island’s Events –
The fireworks displays will be viewable across an oceanside section of the island. Park and view the show from your car at a beachside park. Ideal viewing locations include:
Sea Island 4th of July Celebration:
Luxury resort destination Sea Island Resort hosts several days of Fourth of July festivities. These include beach activities, family games, parties, dining events, and fireworks. The resort’s holiday lineup for 2026 includes children’s activities, beach club events, bingo nights, and special holiday programming throughout the week.
