Writer: Joshua Andino
2 min read June 2023 — With Independence Day fast approaching, Orlando is busy preparing for fireworks, barbecues, and all-American fun.
On July 2, 1776, delegates from the Continental Congress in Philadelphia voted to declare their independence from Great Britain. That was easier said than done, and while John Adams may have been a bit premature telling his wife that “The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable…in the History of America,” it was not until July 4 that the Congress unanimously adopted Thomas Jefferson’s now-iconic Declaration of Independence. The rest, as they say, is history.
While it may be somewhat of a historical accident that July 4 ended up being the day the country celebrates as its independence day, it doesn’t stop Americans across the country, or in Orlando, from enjoying the day and the weekend leading up to it with a fun mix of sports, live entertainment, parades, and of course, fireworks. Invest: takes a look at just some of the many activities across Orlando over the next few days and on July Fourth.
The Great American Block Party
In the lead up to the big day, visitors can start the weekend off at Lake Nona’s Great American Block Party. The Town of Lake Nona will be hosting its big celebration on early Saturday afternoon, July 1 at 2:00 PM. Featuring the Patriotic Parachuters – a team of professional skydivers, as well as live music, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the weekend while grabbing a bite to eat at any of the food truck vendors or a cold refreshment from Park Brewing Bar. Stilt-walkers and circus performers will also be providing live entertainment, while face painting for the kids means everyone gets to enjoy their all-American weekend.
For more information, please visit: https://www.lakenona.com/event/great-american-block-party/
Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast
Guests are invited to start their Fourth of July morning off sweet over at Windermere’s Town Hall, which will be hosting all-you-can-eat free pancakes! The event starts at 9:00 AM.. Organizers will be providing butter, syrup, and drinks while supplies last, but for those looking for anything a bit more exotic, visitors are welcome to bring their own condiments as well. Attendees are invited to stick around and head on over to the old 1887 School House for a tour provided by the town’s Historic Preservation Board, giving visitors a chance to both enjoy a hearty breakfast while developing an appreciation for Windermere history and the story of the greater Orlando area – a fitting end to a historic morning,
For more information, please visit:
https://town.windermere.fl.us/event/4th-of-july-pancake-breakfast/
AdventHealth’s July 4th Watermelon 5K
For those looking to sweat out some of the weekend’s prior fun or just get a good morning jog in, AdventHealth’s July 4th Watermelon 5K at Winter Park is the perfect opportunity to get that cardio in. Starting at 7:15 AM, contestants can expect a watermelon eating contest, as well as a race while enjoying the sponsorship area following the race. Registration is $38 before July 3 and $43 on Race Day.
For more information, please visit:
https://events.cityofwinterpark.org/event/adventhealth-watermelon-5k-3
Orlando City SC vs Toronto FC at Exploria Stadium
Orlando City SC is playing Toronto FC in Downtown Orlando’s Exploria Stadium on July 4. The team has had a strong showing against Toronto in previous games, winning two of the last three matches (with the third ending in a draw). With the game starting at 7:30 PM, tickets are currently being sold for as low as $12.00.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.orlandocitysc.com/
Fireworks At the Fountain
Finally, in the heart of Downtown Orlando at Lake Eola Park, visitors can enjoy the 46th Annual Fireworks at the Fountain. The iconic lake will be lit up with fireworks with the fun kicking off at 5 PM with live music and entertainment alongside family-friendly activities. Nearby street-closures means attendees are encouraged to find parking early, while on-site vendors will be providing food and drinks. The city’s biggest fireworks display kicks off at 9:15 PM, giving attendees more than enough time to enjoy prior activities and still make it on time to catch the show.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.orlando.gov/Events/Fireworks-at-the-Fountain-2023
