United Flagler 4th Community Celebration Brings Residents Together for a Patriotic Independence Day

Thousands of residents came together on Friday, July 4, 2025, for a full day of patriotic festivities during the annual United Flagler 4th Community Celebration, honoring the spirit of Independence Day across Flagler County.

The day began with the Stars & Stripes Parade in Flagler Beach, organized by the Rotary Club of Flagler Beach. The City of Palm Coast was proudly represented by Council Members Charles Gambaro, Ty Miller, and David Sullivan, who rode in festive red, white, and blue trucks generously provided by Palm Coast Ford. The Palm Coast Fire Department also participated, showcasing their community spirit and incredible fire crews.

Following the parade, First Friday in Veterans Park kicked off with live music by SoulFire and a variety of family-friendly contests and activities, adding small-town charm and energy to the day's lineup.

The evening culminated with the spectacular Fireworks Over the Runways at the Flagler Executive Airport. Gates opened at 5 p.m., welcoming the community to enjoy food vendors, a beer garden, kids’ activities, and upbeat entertainment by a live DJ on the main stage. At 6:30 p.m., a special patriotic ceremony began with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Melanie DiMartino, followed by a heartfelt welcome from Palm Coast Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri, who served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. Vice Mayor Pontieri shared voices from across the community reflecting on what Independence Day means to them.

A powerful reading of the Declaration of Independence followed, with 15 local elected officials from across the county taking turns reciting this historic document aloud, as it was intended to be heard. Those who participated were Palm Coast Vice Mayor Theresa Pontieri, Council Members Ty Miller, Charles Gambaro, and David Sullivan; Flagler County Commissioners Pam Richardson, Greg Hansen, and Kim Carney; City of Flagler Beach Commissioners James Sherman, Rick Belhumeur, and Scott Spradley; City of Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson and Vice Mayor John Rogers; Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly, and Flagler County Judges Melissa Distler and Andrea Totten. 

The night concluded with a dazzling fireworks display at 9 p.m., produced by Master Pyro, lighting up the sky in a brilliant celebration of freedom and unity.

The success of this community-wide celebration would not have been possible without the incredible support and collaboration of so many. The City of Palm Coast extends heartfelt thanks to all participating elected officials, the Flagler Executive Airport, Flagler County Government, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, Flagler Beach Police Department, Flagler County Fire Rescue, Palm Coast Fire Department, Flagler County Volunteer Services, city and county staff, and most importantly—our amazing community who came out to celebrate together.

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