Mount Dora throws the Fourth a day early and the whole area follows. Freedom on the Waterfront lights up Elizabeth Evans Park Friday evening, the Independence Day Parade rolls through Donnelly Park Saturday morning, and The Villages throws its All American Celebration on the Fourth itself. Four days of red, white, and reasons to get out of the house. Just pack for a hot, wet one -- mid-90s each day with afternoon storm chances that peak on the Fourth, so bring the ponchos with the sunscreen and keep an eye on the sky before the fireworks.
Thursday
Happy Birthday America! -- W.T. Bland Public Library, Mount Dora, 2 PM ET
The library kicks off the long weekend with a family-friendly birthday party for the country -- crafts, activities, and air conditioning when the afternoon gets thick. An easy first stop with the kids.
America 250 Film Night: "The Crossing" -- the Marion Theatre, Ocala, 5:30 PM ET
Ocala marks the 250th with a screening of "The Crossing" at the historic Marion Theatre downtown. A cooler, quieter way into the holiday weekend if a packed park isn't your speed.
Friday
Freedom on the Waterfront -- Elizabeth Evans Park, Mount Dora, 4-9 PM ET
Mount Dora's big Fourth celebration, held the Friday before. Live music, a Kid's Zone, and the lakefront as the backdrop. Get there before dark, grab a patch of grass, and let the kids run while the bands play.
Saturday
Independence Day Parade -- Donnelly Park, Mount Dora, 10 AM ET
The hometown parade through downtown Mount Dora on the Fourth itself, stepping off from Donnelly Park. Stake out a curb in the shade, bring the kids, and do the morning the old-fashioned way.
The Villages All American Celebration -- Lake Sumter Landing Market Square, 3 PM ET
The Villages goes all in on the Fourth at Lake Sumter Landing -- music, games, and an evening that runs to fireworks. The square fills up, so come for the afternoon and make a night of it.
Crystal River Nights: July 4th -- Crystal River, 4:30 PM ET
Over on the Gulf side, Crystal River throws its own Fourth with a concert downtown. The coastal counterpart to the inland parades -- music, water nearby, and a smaller-town feel.
Sunday
Mount Dora Village Market -- Sunset Park, Mount Dora, 9 AM ET
Wind the weekend down at the Sunday market in Sunset Park -- local makers, produce, and coffee under the oaks. The mellow close to a loud weekend.
The Full Lineup
Find everything happening this weekend at the Villa + Cala events page.
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