Here in Cape Coral, the Fourth can be celebrated to its fullest extent with beautiful weather, an abundance of events and, of course, fireworks.

The holiday brings the mind back to a youthful time, no matter what your age may be. Stirring memories of neighborhood parties, when everyone knew everyone — the smell of barbecue and smoke from the sparklers dancing past your nose. The first time your eyes looked to the sky and suddenly — boom! — it was pure magic.

The single biggest event the Cape puts on every year, Red, White & BOOM!, is the largest fireworks display in all of Southwest Florida.

Tens of thousands of people will come together at the foot of the Cape Coral Bridge to watch the “American Fireworks Spectacular,” where the largest show to date will fill the night sky, replete with synchronized music.

“Cape Coral is absolutely thrilled to host its annual Red, White & Boom celebration,” said city spokesperson Lauren Kurkimilis. “This event has become an unmissable tradition for families, neighbors, and friends across Southwest Florida. Our Parks & Recreation team, city staff, and volunteers are working around the clock to make this year’s show bigger, brighter, and more memorable than ever.”

The free July 4th festivities will start at 5 p.m., kicking off with DJ Rifik at 5:15, Brendan Walter at 6:30, and national headliner George Birge at 8 p.m. Mikalay Williams, a North Fort Myers High School senior, will perform the national anthem at 9:25.

Birge, Texas-born, Nashville-based songwriter, credits his Austin upbringing with his gift for writing relatable lyrics and melodies.

His hit song “Beer Beer, Truck Truck,” is an up-tempo sing-along that is about missing the one you love and wooing them to come back.

Now signed to Barry Weiss’s RECORDS Nashville label, Birge is gearing up to release his debut EP and build on the buzz.

“Our entertainment lineup is a true crowd-pleaser,” Kurkimilis said. “DJ Rifik kicks things off with high-energy mixes to set a festive tone. Mixshow Director for 105.5 The Beat, Brendan Walter, brings his unique blend of radio‒ready beats. George Birge, our national headliner, is an acclaimed country artist known for engaging performances that resonate with fans across generations. This exciting mixture guarantees something for everyone.”

The “American Fireworks Spectacular,” powered by LCEC, propels more than 4,000 shells into the sky starts at 9:30 and is a musically synchronized display. The music can be heard at the stage, on Cat Country 107.1 or on the free iHeartRadio app via Cat Country.

“Celebrating Independence Day is vital to our city’s spirit,” Kurkimilis said. “Red, White & Boom brings generations together to honor the core American values of freedom and community. It provides a space for Cape Coral families and neighbors to unite, reflect, and appreciate our shared heritage. The concluding American Fireworks Spectacular, musically synchronized and over 4,000 shells strong, is a spectacular tribute to the nation’s birthday.”

Parking and shuttles to Red, White & BOOM! are at the following locations:

• Club Square

• Iguana Mia

• Former Veterans Museum

• Big John’s Plaza

There will be a free “Boom Bus” with handicap accessibility picking up individuals at all downtown parking lots from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

The Lee County Department of Transportation reminds motorists the Cape Coral Bridge will be closed for the Red, White & Boom celebration from 3 a.m. Friday, July 4, through 3 a.m. Saturday, July 5. Cape Coral Parkway from Del Prado Boulevard to the bridge will also be closed at that time.

Motorists are encouraged to use the Midpoint Memorial Bridge, the Caloosahatchee Bridge (U.S. 41) or the Edison Bridge (Business 41). Lee DOT will place message boards for motorists; they will remain in place through the holiday and the closing. Motorists should plan for an alternate route.

Coolers with non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. No pets are allowed.

Visit CapeBOOM.com for more information.