Fourth of July in Ocala & Marion County
From Iggy's 4 on the 4th Freedom Run at dawn to synchronized fireworks across four locations at night — 2026 is the biggest Independence Day celebration in Marion County history, coinciding with America's 250th birthday.
Ocala celebrates the Fourth of July 2026 with Iggy's 4 on the 4th Freedom Run and Marion County's Independence Day Fireworks Celebration at four locations. Festivities begin at 5:00 PM with food trucks, vendors, and music at Veterans Memorial Park (Ocala), Wrigley Fields (Citra), Dunnellon High School, and Belleview Sportsplex. Synchronized fireworks start at 9:00 PM. Note: The City of Ocala's "Patriotic Skies" event is not being held in 2026.
Iggy's 4 on the 4th Freedom Run
Ocala's premier Independence Day running tradition — a 4-mile race through Southeast Ocala neighborhoods honoring the memory of Greg “Iggy” Miller.
Race Details
Registration
4-Mile Run: $35 (price increases after April 15)
1-Mile Run/Walk: $25
T-Shirt: Included if registered by June 15
Packet Pickup: 6:30 AM – 7:20 AM race day
Awards: 8:45 AM (top 3 per 5-year age group)
About the Race
The race honors Greg “Iggy” Miller, a longtime race director who passed away in 2013. Miller was instrumental in establishing many of Marion County's running events and served as a mentor to countless local runners.
Two race options: the signature 4-mile run through quiet, tree-shaded neighborhoods of Southeast Ocala and a 1-mile run/walk for all fitness levels. Both start and finish at Veterans Memorial Park. Dogs are not permitted on the course; leashed pets are welcome in spectator areas.
Awards at 8:45 AM (3 places per 5-year age group). Patriotic finisher medal, chip timing, post-race refreshments, and race photos included. T-shirt guaranteed for registrations before June 15. Organized by Radical Runs.
2025 Highlights
Cody Thompson won his second consecutive title (22:23). Jaylen Blackburn, 15, celebrated his birthday with a second-place finish. Josie Leonard won the women's race in a thrilling three-way finish. Seven of the top 10 men had ties to the Ocala Distance Project.
Read 2025 Race Recap →July 4th 2026 — Full Day Schedule
From a sunrise race to midnight fireworks, here's everything happening across Marion County on Independence Day.
Iggy's 4 on the 4th Registration Opens
Veterans Memorial Park
Iggy's 4 on the 4th Race Start
Veterans Memorial Park
Iggy's 4 on the 4th — Awards Ceremony
Veterans Memorial Park
Marion County Independence Day Parade & Festivities Begin
Parade: Marion Technical Institute → Festivals at 3+ locations
Marion County Synchronized Fireworks
Veterans Memorial Park (Ocala), Belleview Sportsplex & Wrigley Fields (Citra)
2026 July 4th Events
Detailed information for each Independence Day event in the Ocala area.
Marion County Independence Day Fireworks Celebration
Part of the Marion Celebrating America's 250th initiative, Marion County hosts simultaneous Independence Day celebrations at four locations. Festivities begin at 5:00 PM with food trucks, vendors, and live music, culminating in synchronized professional fireworks at 9:00 PM. Locations: Veterans Memorial Park (Ocala), Wrigley Fields (Citra), Dunnellon High School, and Belleview Sportsplex.
America 250 Patriotic Parade
Part of Marion County's America 250 celebration. The Patriotic Parade begins at 5 PM from Marion Technical Institute with historical floats, cultural performances, and local organizations marching to celebrate America's 250th birthday.
Eatons Beach — Lake Weir July 4th Celebration
Eatons Beach in Dunnellon hosts its traditional July 4th waterfront celebration. Swimming, jet ski rentals, picnic areas, riverside dining, and a fireworks display over the water. A full-day destination combining water sports and evening pyrotechnics.
Planning Your July 4th
Start Early
Kick off the holiday with Iggy's at 7:30 AM, then catch the Patriotic Parade at 5:00 PM and settle in for fireworks at 9:00 PM. You can do it all in one day.
Pick Your Fireworks
Synchronized fireworks at 9:00 PM at Veterans Memorial Park (Ocala), Belleview Sportsplex, and Wrigley Fields (Citra). Eatons Beach also hosts a waterfront celebration. Pick the spot closest to you.
Beat the Heat
July in Ocala means highs in the 90s. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. For daytime relief, consider the natural springs or public pools before evening events.
What to Bring
For the Fireworks
- ✓ Blanket or lawn chairs
- ✓ Cooler with water and drinks
- ✓ Picnic dinner or snacks
- ✓ Bug spray (mosquitoes are active at dusk)
- ✓ Cash for food trucks and vendors
- ✓ Flashlight for walking out after the show
For Iggy's Race
- ✓ Running shoes and athletic wear
- ✓ Sunscreen (7:30 AM sun is already strong)
- ✓ Water bottle
- ✓ Registration confirmation or ID
- ✓ Post-race change of clothes
- ✓ Arrive by 6:30 AM for registration
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Iggy's 4 on the 4th?▼
Where are the fireworks in Ocala on July 4th 2026?▼
What time do the Marion County fireworks start on July 4th?▼
Is there a July 4th parade in Ocala in 2026?▼
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Related Events & Guides
Marion Celebrates 250
Full guide to Marion County's year-long America 250 “Liberty Lives Here” initiative.
Learn MoreFireworks in Ocala
Year-round guide to fireworks shows and pyrotechnic events across Marion County.
Learn MoreSummer Activities
Springs, pools, camps, and indoor escapes for beating the Florida summer heat.
ExploreHoliday Road Races
Guide to Ocala's running events including Iggy's, Retro Run, and holiday races.
ExploreMarion County Day
Free community celebration on March 28 with the Battle of the Drumlines kickoff for America 250.
Learn MoreCelebrate Independence Day in Ocala
America turns 250 on July 4, 2026. From Iggy's at sunrise to synchronized fireworks at nightfall, Marion County is going all out.
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Event information curated by the Only In Ocala team. Details verified through our editorial process. Updated March 2026.