As it has for a great number of years, Marco Island Civic Association (MICA) will host their traditional Fourth of July Beach Bash at Residents’ Beach or “Uncle Sam’s Sand Jam” with music provided by the Marco Eagle. While the festivities begin at noon, members arrive much earlier and stake their claim to a tiny portion of the wide expanse that now is our Marco Island beachfront. Kids’ games, consisting of some old favorites and some new additions, will keep the kids busy, along with loads of arts and crafts and fantastic face painting.
After the 2nd annual hot dog eating contest at 1:00 pm the games begin. MICA’s sandcastle contest is a sport the whole family may participate in, from the youngest to the oldest. Past sculptures have been fabulous, but somehow every year there are new ideas and creations that rise from the sand! So, come ready with your bucket and shovel, plenty of sunscreen and your creative sandcastle idea(s) and register at the tent to get your number and flag. Sandcastle judging will begin at 3 p.m.
As always, this patriotic day will culminate with a smashing fireworks display! The DJ at Residents’ Beach will blast red, white and blue music to accompany the colorful fireworks.
Paradise Grill will be selling their regular menu as well as the required Fourth of July burgers and hot dogs. MICA will also be selling beer and wine. The Kiwanis Club of Marco Island will offer t-shirts, hats and other July Fourth paraphernalia, such as glow necklaces. The Marco Island VFW will be taking donations in exchange for a flag with the funds being applied to the memorial at Veterans Park. Residents and business owners, hotels and time-share buildings are kindly requested to contribute to our traditional July 4th community event that brings thousands and thousands of people to the Marco beachfront.
Residents’ Beach members, bring your ID. For more information about Residents’ Beach events, call 642-7778. The fireworks display begins at approximately 9 p.m.