In anticipation of Independence Day, I've sought out a list of events that will be going on in the area.  Southwest Florida (and Florida in general) has a reputation for doing July 4^th better than any other place!

Here are the festivities in the area:

Punta Gorda:  Inaugural 4th of July Blowout
Where:  Laishley Park
Details:  There will be live music, a variety of food, plenty of alcohol and plenty of activities for the kids!  $2 entry fee.

Charlotte County (Peace River/Charlotte Harbor):  Annual Freedom Swim
Where:  The public beach at the west side of the north end of the Southbound US 41 bridge
Details:  You can swim, float, paddle or stroke your way across Charlotte Harbor.  I should also mention that in previous years, the swimmers are generally drunk, naked or both!  This truly unique event is sure to be something you'll never forget...or won't remember!

North Port:  Annual Firecracker 5k Run and Parade
Where:  Dallas White Park
Details:  The 5k starts are 7:30am at Dallas White Park, and then at 10:00am a parade begins at the corner of Appomattox Drive and North Port Blvd.  The parade route ends at Dallas White Park.

North Port:  Freedom Festival
Where:  North Port High School
Details:  The Freedom Festival opens its gates at 6:00pm.  There will be plenty of family activities and the night will conclude in a spectacular fireworks display.

Venice:  Independence Day Fireworks Display
Where:  Fireworks will be fired from the South Venice Jetty shortly after sunset.
Details:  No parking on the South Venice Jetty - fireworks can be viewed from many locations close by.

Siesta Key:  Siesta Key 20th Anniversary Fireworks
Where:  Siesta Key Public Beach
Details:  Free admission, or you can get a $75 VIP Package which includes a gourmet picnic dinner, wine, beer, soft drinks and preferred parking.

Sarasota:  Fireworks Over The Bay
Where:  Bayfront Park
Details:  Free admission, but please consider bringing a cash donation or a new infant/children's item for the Florida center.  You can drop off at Island Park entrance, Marina Jack or Municipal Auditorium.

Roxanne & Shannon Moore are a mother-daughter team selling real estate in Charlotte and Sarasota Counties including-North Port, Port Charlotte, Englewood, Venice, Osprey, Nokomis, Sarasota, Punta Gorda and Boca Grande. To search the MLS or find a list of SW Florida communities, visit www.TropicalFloridaProperty.com!