July 4th Boat Parade

Celebrating July 4th with Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk!

Friday, July 4th, 2025!

Boat Registration now open using link below! Celebrate July 4th with Friends of the Riverwalk as we host a July 4th Boat Parade, Water Ski Show, Blessing of the Fleet, and fireworks! The parade route will be similar to our holiday light boat parade but will include a Water Ski Show in 2 locations to kick off the celebration and a blessing station. We’re excited to announce the theme for this year’s July 4th Boat Parade: SALUTE TO SERVICE. Join us as we celebrate our military and first responders with a patriotic display on the water!

Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for the most patriotic boat! We will also provide prize bags for all registered boaters. 

Registration is required to participate in the boat parade. Spectators are free. VIP tickets are available for purchase to view the water ski show, parade and fireworks with seating, drinks and food! Umbrellas are allowed but outside chairs and coolers are prohibited. 
*Tickets and registration are nonrefundable. No reschedule date, the parade is rain or shine.

EARLY-BIRD BOAT REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

VIP TICKETS!

Watch the July 4th Boat Parade and Water Ski Show VIP style! 
VIP Experience – Two Locations, One Spectacular Show! See options below.
Enjoy premium views of the July 4th Boat Parade and Water Ski Show from one of our two exclusive VIP areas. Both locations offer fantastic vantage points of all the action. 
Please note: your ticket is valid only for the location selected at purchase. Access to both locations is not permitted.

Option 1: VIP Access at Splitsville (Indoor) & Sparkman Wharf (Outdoor)
Friday, July 4, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
*This location offers Firework Show.

Enjoy the best views and comfort as you take in the patriotic boat parade, water ski show, and dazzling fireworks display!
Your VIP Experience Includes:

• Exclusive indoor access to Splitsville’ s private A/C area with seating, a gaming zone, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and 3 drink tickets
• Reserved outdoor seating at Sparkman Wharf with premium views of the boat parade, water ski show, and fireworks

$100 Early-Bird Pricing – Hurry, prices increase as the event approaches!

Please note:

• VIP tickets are non-refundable
• Parking is not included- special event rate applies. 
• 2 and under FREE!
  Sponsored by Splitsville and Sparkman Wharf.

Option 2: VIP Access at Jackson's Bistro Waterfront Room (Indoor/Outdoor Access available)
Friday, 7/4/25 | 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

This July 4th, Jackson’s and American Social are joining forces to deliver a VIP experience for Tampa’s July 4th boat parade and water ski show. Enjoy Indoor/Outdoor Private VIP Access Jackson's Bistro with the best views of the boat parade and the water ski show! 
Your Vip Experience includes:

• Private AC area inside Jackson's Bistro Waterfront Room with seating, heavy apps and 3 drink tickets with Waterfront Views
• Private Section outside on balcony above Jackson’s to watch the boat parade and ski show with seating

$100 Early-Bird Pricing – Hurry, prices increase as the event approaches!

Please note:

• VIP tickets are non-refundable
• Parking is available at a discounted rate.
• 2 and under FREE!

Sponsored by Jackson's Bistro, American Social and The Pointe.

Interested in Sponsorship for 2025?

For more information or to lock in your sponsorship today, email info@thetampariverwalk.com!

2025 July 4th Parade Route

July 4th Boat Parade Grand Marshal

Thank You to our 2025 Captain's Party Sponsor!

 All registered boaters (+1) enjoy the Captain's Party at Jackson's Bistro! Get your boat number, safety instructions and enjoy complimentary food, beverage, and networking with boaters! 
*must be registered to attend*

2025 July 4th Boat Parade Sponsors

2024 July 4th Boat Parade, Water Ski Show & Blessing of the Fleet

Photos by: Tacy Briggs-Troncoso Photography & PamElla Photography