Families have been visiting Seaside to celebrate Independence Day for generations, as what started as a small and simple salute to the States is now a favorite holiday tradition in town that draws hundreds. Part of the fun tradition is decorating golf carts, trailers and vintage cars with patriotic bunting and banners, eating watermelon and enjoying the parade, concerts and fireworks show. People show up early in front of Airstream Row to get the best view as the parade rolls into town, and place blankets on the amphitheater grass ensuring front row seats for the evening entertainment. Fireworks launch from the beautiful Gulf of Mexico and light up the expansive sky with colors of red, white and blue.
The tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July is embedded in the memories and lives of Seaside locals and guests, past and present. For the first time in years, Seaside is adding to the already packed weekend of entertainment.
Stars & Stripes at Seaside, the patriotic Pops concert led by Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Maestro Peter Rubardt, will feature familiar Independence Day-themed music including The 1812 Overture and a salute to the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The orchestra was asked by the City of Pensacola to perform in that town on July 4, typically the day they perform in Seaside. But we have the pleasure of hosting them on July 3 instead, so that the festivities can continue with the tradition of a stellar performance by the beloved Pops and orchestra. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the amphitheater.
Introducing an additional show for the weekend’s festivities, female vocalist trio the Victory Belles will travel from the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. The USO-style show promises to help guests celebrate America’s birthday in 1940s-era style. Enjoy a trip down memory lane with the trio’s spirited performances of hits such as Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree, Chattanooga Choo Choo and I’ll Be Seeing You, all sung in rich, three-part harmony. The show will begin on July 4 at 7 p.m. and the fireworks spectacular will follow at 8:30 p.m.