St. Simons Island is the largest of Georgia’s barrier islands. The location is well-known for its beaches, golf courses, and museums. Historic landmarks include the Fort Frederica National Monument and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse has been working since 1872, making it a focal point of the island’s history.
The island celebrates the 4th of July every year with fireworks and activities for the whole family. Whether you’re a Georgia resident or looking for a new out-of-town adventure, a 4th of July St. Simons Island trip will be memorable. Continue reading to discover more about St Simons island’s 4th of July celebrations.
St. Simons Island Sunshine Festival
The Sunshine Festival is the star of the island’s 4th of July celebration. It happens in Pier Village from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 2-3. On July 4, the festivities start at 7 a.m. and end with the fireworks show, which begins at 9 p.m.
St. Simons Island 4th of July Celebration Schedule
Here’s a breakdown of each day’s events.
Friday, July 2
Get ready to be wowed by the creative side of life. From 10 a.m.-5 p.m., the island hosts an arts and crafts festival. See the works and creations of local artists, plus find a souvenir to take home for yourself or a loved one.
Saturday, July 3
This day is mostly a repeat of Friday. The arts and craft festival is on again from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll around and check out all the artists whose works you missed the day before. This is a great opportunity to purchase something unique.
Sunday, July 4
Sunday is the most active day of the festival. Get your 7 a.m. run on during the 5K. Or sleep in a little and take the kids to the one-mile fun run at 8 a.m. The 5K goes through a residential neighborhood, and the homeowners with the best-looking landscape receive an award.
Then, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., you and the family can visit the arts and crafts show one last time. If golf and parades are your game, catch the golf cart parade at 2:30 p.m. If you want to participate, decorate a golf cart and join the procession. The parade goes through scenic Pier Village, so you won’t want to miss it!
Live music from the Caroline Aiken Band will get your toes tapping and body moving from 6-9 p.m.
The celebration’s finale is the real showstopper! Head to the shoreline along Neptune Park by 9 p.m. to watch the fireworks display. You are welcome to bring chairs and blankets to sit on. There is also free parking available, plus it doesn’t cost anything to watch the sky light up in red, white, and blue!
After the fireworks, the live music starts up again. Stick around and relax to the sounds under the night sky or enjoy the music as you walk back to your car.
Disclaimers
If you want to catch the fireworks, you need to be aware of a few things.
The fishing pier and the southern portion of Mallory Street will close to traffic. This includes vehicles and people who want to walk through. The pier and street will close down the morning of July 4.
A portion of Neptune Park will also be sectioned off, and all tents must be taken down by 7 p.m. to avoid fire danger.
Public safety officials will be on hand throughout the day, with lifeguards and police officers patrolling beaches and lifeguard boats in the ocean. No traffic will be allowed east of Mallory Street and Butler Avenue. Beachview Drive and 12th Street will also be closed. Police officers will be on-site at major intersections to help direct traffic.
Room 114 of the Casino Building will host a lost and found, as well as emergency medical care. Room 108 will be set up for lost children and parents.
Before You Go
A 4th of July St Simons Island celebration is a great way to make memories with family and friends. There is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the weekend, including the incredible sunsets along the beach! Don’t miss the opportunity to spend a memorable holiday on this beautiful and historic island with fun activities to suit every taste.
