July 2026

City Releases Program Agenda for “Raise the Flag” Ceremony

The City of Cape Coral has released the official program agenda for the upcoming “Raise the Flag” ceremony scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Bernice Braden Park, 2051 Cape Coral Parkway East.


Residents, veterans, community partners, and visitors are invited to attend. The event is free and open to the public.


Program Agenda:


  • 1:45–2:20 p.m. – Guest arrival and refreshments
  • 2:25 p.m. – Opening remarks
  • Sponsor recognition and tribute video
  • Speaker remarks
  • Presentation of Colors and National Anthem
  • Closing remarks and retirement of Colors
  • Approximately 3:00 p.m. – Formal program concludes


Please note: Program elements and times are subject to change.

Dear Cape Coral Residents,


As we welcome July, summer offers a time to reflect on our progress and connect as a community. This year, it also gives us a unique opportunity to come together in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.


On July 4, Cape Coral will mark this historic occasion with two special events. We will begin the day with the “Raise the Flag” ceremony at Bernice Braden Park at 2 p.m., where the tallest free-standing American flagpole in Florida will stand as a lasting symbol of our nation’s history and shared values.


Later that evening, residents and visitors will gather for Red, White & Boom, continuing the celebration with one of our community’s most anticipated traditions. Together, these events reflect both the significance of this national milestone and the strong sense of community here in Cape Coral.

Raise the Flag Discount Passport On Sale Now!


Purchase your Raise the Flag Discount Passport and enjoy exclusive offers from some of Cape Coral's favorite restaurants and businesses!


Purchase your passport through Eventbrite until July 4th. Passports must be picked up at the South Cape Community Center or Cape Coral Art Center and are valid until Sept. 30, 2026.


Passport must be presented at participating businesses to redeem offers. All proceeds go to Raise the Flag.


City Transitioning to Online-First Permitting July 1


The City of Cape Coral is moving to an online-first permitting system July 1 to improve efficiency, reduce wait times, and expand access to services.


Beginning July 1, owner-builders will be expected to submit permit applications through the City's online portal, bringing all permit applicants into the City's digital permitting process.


Learn More


Community Invited to Cape Coral Parkway Resiliency Workshops


The City of Cape Coral invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to participate in a public workshop series for the Cape Coral Parkway Corridor Resiliency Planning Study.


The study focuses on creating a 20-year vision for Cape Coral Parkway by identifying vulnerabilities and developing strategies to improve resilience. Key areas of focus include stormwater management, landscaping, and transportation along the corridor.

Spotlight on Excellence

Cape Coral Earns Gold Designation for Workplace Mental Health Efforts


The City of Cape Coral's Human Resources Department earned the Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America (MHA). This is the third year in a row Cape Coral has received this national certification, recognizing employers committed to creating mentally healthy workplaces for their employees.


Read More

Safety First

Fireworks Safety


Every year, there are over 10,000 injuries that require visits to the Emergency Room and almost 20,000 fires due to fireworks.


The safest and best option for watching fireworks is to view a professional show like "Red, White & BOOM." However, if you plan to use fireworks, please adhere to guidelines provided by the Cape Coral Fire Department.


  • Only use fireworks outdoors
  • Never light a firework in your hand
  • Do not mix alcohol and fireworks
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby

Recreation Round-Up

Celebrate summer with us at the Youth Center Block Party! Bring the whole family out for a fun-filled day packed with games, music, food, and exciting activities in honor of Parks and Recreation Month. Don’t miss this FREE community event!


Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026

Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Location: William Austen Youth Center

Free Summer Meal Program for Youth Launches June 8 at Six Cape Coral Parks


Beginning Monday, June 15, free lunches will be served at Jaycee Park Monday through Friday as part of the Summer BreakSpot program. From June 8 through July 29, children and teens ages 18 and under can enjoy no-cost weekday lunches at the following Cape Coral parks (Please note: No meals will be served on June 19 and July 3):


  • Four Freedoms Park: Breakfast: 8:45 – 9:30 a.m. Lunch: 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
  • Del Prado Linear Park: Lunch: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Gator Trails Park: Lunch: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Paul Sanborn Park: Lunch: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Jim Jeffers Park: Lunch: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.


Read More

Learn About Our Parks & Rec Facilities

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