Freedom Fest is always short in distance, heavy on charm

Longboat Key Freedom Fest parade participants march just a quarter-mile around Bay Isles Road, but the parade goes the distance on charm. In fact, the Fourth of July parade is often described as the shortest, most charming parade in America.

The town will show its stars and stripes again at this year’s event, beginning with the parade around Bay Isles Road and continuing at Bicentennial Park outside of Longboat Key Town Hall. This year, there’s a new push for pup participants: The Rotary Club of Longboat Key is sponsoring the “Hot Diggity Dog Parade” as part of the festivities and will award prizes to some of the most patriotic pet costumes.

Human participants of all ages can walk or make the trek on decorated bikes or in strollers and wagons.
The festivities continue at Bicentennial Park with a butterfly release by the Longboat Key Garden Club, music by Jay Goodley Entertainment, four games from Taylor’s Rentals, a sand art station and face painting. Blue Dolphin Café will offer refreshments.

The Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce is seeking sponsors and volunteers for the event. Volunteers are needed to set up and operate games, sell tickets and help in the craft area. For information, call 383-2466 or email [email protected].

For information about the dog parade, email Mary Lou Johnson at [email protected].

If you go
Longboat Key Freedom Fest
When: 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, July 4
Where: Parade begins between Bank of America and SunTrust Bank on Bay Isles Road; celebration continues at Bicentennial Park outside of Longboat Key Town Hall, 501 Bay Isles Road.
Contact: Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce, 383-2466

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected]