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201 N Franklin St Suite 2900
Tampa, Florida 33602

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July 4th Boat Parade

Saturday, July 4, 2026
6:00 pm8:00 pm
Hillsborough River
To participate in the July 4th Boat Parade, your boat must be registered!

Celebrate July 4th with Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk as we host the July 4th Boat Parade, Water Ski Show, Blessing of the Fleet, and fireworks along the Tampa Riverwalk! In partnership with the City of Tampa’s Liberty by the Bay celebration, this patriotic event brings thousands of spectators together to celebrate America’s birthday on the water.

This year’s theme honors America 250 as we celebrate 250 years of our nation’s history, freedom, and spirit. Decorated boats will cruise along the parade route in a festive display of red, white, and blue while competing for patriotic prizes and trophies. Boats will be judged from Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park as spectators line the Riverwalk to watch the celebration sail by.

The parade route will follow a similar route to the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade and will once again feature a Water Ski Show to kick off the festivities, along with a special Blessing of the Fleet.

Registered boaters will receive:

Invitation to the Captain’s Party
Boater Swag Bag
Registration Numbers
Registered Boater Pennant Flag
Chance to Win Most Patriotic Trophy
Chance to Win Additional Prizes

In honor of America’s 250th celebration, boat registration this year is just $20.26!

Our Impact This Year

  • 2025 Volunteer Hours

    1,078

  • 2025 Dollars Raised

    $808,928

  • 2025 Program Participants

    405,525

Friends of the Riverwalk
201 N Franklin St Suite 2900
Tampa, Florida 33602
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