Grab the watermelon, picnic blanket, snacks, and the family, and come over here for 4th of july in Florence, Oregon. Florence offers all kinds of events, gatherings, and one of the coast’s best firework shows that will please everyone in the family. Don’t forget: you can book your stay at Old Town Inn for a relaxing long weekend away since July 4 is a Thursday this year!
4th of July Activities in Florence, Oregon
Whether it’s the annual 4th of July celebration or your normal vacationer activities, Florence has a lot to keep you busy this 4th of July.
1. 2019 Annual Independence Day Fireworks Show
The big celebration is held in Old Town and goes all day and through to the big fireworks show, starting at 10. It’s even accompanied by music! The pyrotechnics will be launched from the Port of Siuslaw property at the east end of Historic Old Town Florence. Launching from the Port of Siuslaw gives more people a better vantage point for viewing the show, and the location adds depth and drama by allowing the show to reflect off the water.
In the past, there have been pie-eating contests, games for kids, races, music, food, and much more. This is a family-friendly event, so bring the kids and the grandparents! Make sure you arrive and claim your spot early.
2. Head Over to the South Jetty
The South Jetty is a beautiful place to pass some time, and only a five-minute drive from Old Town. Walk along the beach looking for seashells, dip your toes in the ocean, or simply enjoy the scenery. It’s also a great place to surf or kiteboard…or just watch the experts show off!
3. Visit the Sea Lion Caves
It wouldn’t be a trip to Florence without a fun stop at the Sea Lion Caves. The Sea Lion Caves are open 363 days out of the year (only closed for Christmas and Thanksgiving) and has free parking. Hundreds of the frolicking pinnipeds are waiting to great you with their signature sounds and antics.
4. Hike the Hobbit Trail
Straight out of your child’s imagination, this hiking trail offers beautiful scenery and fun little trails covered by arching trees that spill right out onto a secluded beach. Also, from the same roadside parking area, just north of the Heceta Head Lighthouse, are trails that lead to the lighthouse and through Carl G. Washburne state park. So much to see, so pack a lunch and some water.
5. Go Agate Hunting at Strawberry Hill
Check the tides and head on over to Strawberry Hill for some good, old-fashioned agate hunting—from the rocky shores that extend south, tot the sandy shores to the north. Make sure you pack good shoes; the trek down can be slippery, but it’s well worth it. Strawberry Hill is also home to a number of sea lions and sea birds.
6. Go Out to Dinner
Old Town is home to many restaurants that will fill you and the family up without breaking the bank. To learn about our favorites, check out this blog. Don’t forget to tell us in the comments where you went and what you thought.
7. Stick Around for Wings and Wheels on July 6
Make 4th of July in Florence, Oregon a mini-vacation and stick around for Wings and Wheels. This event, held at the Florence Municipal Airport, offers the following:
- Classic American and British custom cars
- Restored military vehicles with free rides
- Helicopter displays
- First responder displays
- Live entertainment
- Food vendors
- And much more!
Register to exhibit your classic vehicle here; the cost is $25.00 per vehicle and FREE for spectators.
Celebrate the 4th of July Safely
Please remember that private fireworks are not allowed on public property in Old Town. This includes beaches and dunes. If you do use private fireworks, wherever you are, make sure you always keep a bucket of water nearby and that the fireworks are deployed on cement.
Happy 4th of July!