Sebastian to Celebrate 55th Annual Freedom Festival on July 4

SEBASTIAN — The city of Sebastian will host its 55th annual Fourth of July Freedom Festival on Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to approximately 9:45 p.m. at Riverview Park.

The Sebastian Lions Club, Sebastian Masonic Lodge #232, and the City of Sebastian are hosting the event, which promises patriotic pride, family-friendly fun, and cherished community traditions.

• 8:30 am – 9:30 am Parade starts near the Community Center at Davis Street and Central Avenue. It proceeds down Indian River Drive to the park.
• 10:00 am – 8:00 pm: Beer sales at the beer concession.
• 10:00 am – 11:00 am: Hula hoop contest.
• 11:00 am – 2:00 pm: Johnny and the Blaze perform.
• 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Watermelon contest.
• 3:00 pm – 3:30 pm: Balloon toss contest.
• 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Karaoke contest held in the pavilion with Russ. The grand prize is $50; second place receives $20.
• 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Chemistry Band performs.
• 9:00 pm – TBD: Fireworks

Beat the July heat at the Freedom Festival

July 4th in Sebastian can get hot fast. A hands-free neck fan or cooling towel is a simple way to stay comfortable while enjoying the parade, live music, contests, and fireworks at Riverview Park. Browse neck fans & cooling gear (Amazon Associate disclosure: Sebastian Daily earns from qualifying purchases.)

Anyone interested in participating in the parade should complete this application and hold harmless agreement no later than June 29, 2026. Applications will be automatically submitted to the City of Sebastian for final review and approval.

Those who print the application should submit a copy to rpaul@cityofsebastian.org or bring it in person to City Hall. Participants should also bring a copy to the parade.

Arrival and Parking

• Arrive early, especially if you want a good spot for the parade or to set up near the main activities. Parking lots will fill quickly.
• Be patient in the parking areas and do not block other vehicles. Organizers expect heavy traffic.

Traffic and Travel

• Use extra caution around U.S. 1 and S.R. 512. Large crowds will be walking and driving throughout the day.
• Give yourself plenty of extra time to reach the park and to leave after the fireworks.

What to Bring

• Plenty of water — stay hydrated in the Florida heat.
• Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, and cooling fans.
• Lawn chairs or blankets for the music performances and fireworks viewing.
• Cash for water, food, beer, and other vendors.

The free, family-friendly event offers residents and visitors a full day of patriotic celebrations in the heart of Sebastian. Organizers encourage everyone to arrive early, follow safety tips, stay hydrated in the heat, and enjoy the community traditions that make this annual festival special.