After years of anticipation, the City of Ocala is bringing fireworks back to Tuscawilla Park this July 4th with Patriotic Skies 2025 – a free, family-friendly celebration that promises to be the highlight of Independence Day in Marion County.
A Night of Music, Food, and Fireworks
The festivities begin at 6:00 PM with the Presentation of the Colors and National Anthem, setting a patriotic tone for the evening ahead. Tuscawilla Park will transform into a community gathering space where families can spread out blankets, set up chairs, and enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars.
The main stage will feature talented local performers throughout the night. Emma Forgette takes the stage first from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, followed by Bryce Mauldin from 8:00 to 9:15 PM. Meanwhile, the Kids Stage ensures younger attendees stay entertained with DJ Karim spinning family-friendly tunes from 6:00 to 9:00 PM.
Food vendors will be stationed throughout the park, offering everything from classic festival fare to sweet treats, ensuring no one goes hungry during the celebration. The Kids Zone will feature games and activities designed to keep children of all ages engaged and excited.
The Grand Finale: Fireworks Over Lake Tuscawilla
The evening culminates at 9:30 PM with a spectacular fireworks display presented by Ocala Main Street. After years without fireworks at Tuscawilla Park, this dazzling show promises to light up the night sky in a tribute to America’s birthday, reflecting beautifully over Lake Tuscawilla.
VIP Experience at Midtown Station
For those seeking an elevated experience, Midtown Station is offering exclusive VIP viewing from what organizers call “the BEST spot on the lake” to watch the fireworks show. The VIP experience includes exclusive access to Midtown Station for the evening, appetizers from local vendors, two alcoholic beverages from Infinite Ale Works, air conditioning, private bathrooms, and covered patio seating overlooking Lake Tuscawilla.
VIP ticket holders will also enjoy live music from 6:00 to 9:00 PM before the fireworks begin. With limited space available, those interested should secure their tickets at https://midtownstation.ticketspice.com/fourth-of-july-party.
Getting There
Due to expected large crowds, organizers strongly recommend using the free shuttle services running from 5:00 to 11:00 PM. Shuttles will operate from multiple convenient locations including Marion Technical Institute, E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, Marion County Courthouse, the downtown Ocala Parking Garage, and Ocala City Hall.
Street closures will be in effect during the event, with Sanchez Avenue closed from NE 4th Street to 9th Street, and Watula closed from NE 5th Street to NE 9th Street.
What to Bring
Attendees should bring their own chairs or blankets, as seating will not be provided. Food and soft drinks will be available for purchase from vendors. Please note that tents, alcohol, and personal drones are not permitted at the event.
Patriotic Skies represents a partnership between the City of Ocala, Marion County Board of County Commissioners, and the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, showcasing the community collaboration that makes Ocala special.
For complete information about Patriotic Skies, contact the City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department at 352-368-5517.
Other Independence Day Celebrations
While Patriotic Skies is the main downtown celebration, Ocala residents have several other options for celebrating Independence Day. The morning kicks off with Iggy’s 4 on the Fourth Freedom Run at 7:30 AM at Veterans Memorial Park. Circle Square Commons hosts their own Independence Day celebration from 4:30 to 9:30 PM, while The Country Club of Ocala offers a premium celebration with buffet dinner starting at 4:00 PM. Eaton’s Beach provides a lakefront celebration with all-day specials and fireworks at dusk around the lake.
