There is absolutely nothing quite like spending Independence Day weekend on America’s beautiful twin beaches. Between the sugar-white sand, the gentle Gulf breeze, and the festive energy in the air, the Alabama Gulf Coast is the place to be. To help you maximize your holiday weekend, we’ve rounded up the absolute best 4th of July events in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area—along with a few local secrets to keep your celebrations smooth and stress-free.

Kick Off the Weekend with the Red, White & Run 5K

Before diving headfirst into burgers and beach days, start your holiday weekend on the right foot! On Thursday, July 2, 2026, the Fort Morgan Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary is hosting its inaugural Red, White & Run 5K. 

• When: Thursday, July 2 at 7:00 AM 
• Where: Fort Morgan, AL
• Why go: It’s a fantastic way to experience some of the most scenic marsh views on the peninsula while supporting our incredible local volunteer firefighters. Throw on your favorite red, white, and blue gear—runners and walkers of all fitness levels are welcome!

Fire up the Grill with Fresh Market Seafood

You can’t celebrate the Fourth on the coast without a proper beachside cookout. While traditional burgers are great, we like to do things a little differently down here. Skip the standard grocery line and head over to Fresh Market Seafood to pick up the absolute freshest local catch. Throwing some fresh-caught Gulf shrimp, royal reds, or locally sourced snapper on the grill is the ultimate way to feed your family after a long day in the sun.
Pro-Tip: If you’re boiling shrimp, make sure to ask the team at the market for their favorite local seasoning blends to get that authentic coastal flavor!

Where to Catch the Fireworks & Drone Shows

Because 2026 marks America’s 250th birthday, the firework displays along the coast are going to be bigger and more spectacular than ever before. You actually have multiple chances to catch the lights across the holiday weekend.

1. The Wharf’s 250th Spectacular (Orange Beach)

• When: Thursday, July 2, 2026 | Street Party starts at 5:30 PM, Fireworks at 9:00 PM 
• What to expect: The City of Orange Beach has teamed up with The Wharf for a massive dual celebration. They are hosting a huge family-friendly street party followed by a massive fireworks display at 9:00 PM, an incredible drone show at 9:15 PM, and the SPECTRA Laser Light Experience immediately following.

2. The Annual Gulf Shores Independence Day Celebration

• When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 | Show begins at 9:00 PM 
• What to expect: The traditional, community-wide fireworks show will be launched directly from the Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier. 
• Best viewing spots: Gather your beach chairs and head to the eastern side of the Gulf Shores Public Beach, or secure a parking spot early at Lake Shelby or the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion for a front-row seat to the magic.

3. Flora-Bama Freedom Run & Fireworks

• When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 | Run at 8:00 AM, Fireworks at 9:00 PM 
• What to expect: If you missed Thursday's 5K, you can jump into the 6th Annual Freedom Run (4-mile or 1-mile fun run) at the state line Saturday morning. Stick around all day for legendary live music, barbecue, and beach fun, capped off by their annual beachfront fireworks at 9:00 PM.