VERO BEACH — Long before fireworks light up the night sky, hundreds of residents and visitors will head into the Atlantic Ocean for one of Vero Beach’s most beloved Independence Day traditions.

Swim to the Wreck returns July 4, bringing together swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers, snorkelers and floaters for a morning of fun, friendship and community at the SS Breconshire shipwreck, better known locally as the Boiler Wreck.

According to organizer Lori Strazzulla, the event has been a Fourth of July tradition for more than 20 years.

“It started with a small group from the Sunrunners who would swim out to the wreck on the Fourth of July,” Strazzulla said. “Back then there were fewer than 20 people. Over the years it has grown completely organically into one of Vero Beach’s most cherished holiday traditions.”

Today, approximately 1,000 people are expected to participate throughout the morning.

Longtime participants say the gathering’s history is also connected to the memory of local resident Michael Blatus, whose love of the ocean helped inspire a tradition that continues to bring people together each Independence Day.

“What started as a small tribute to Michael has become a community celebration for everyone,” said longtime participant Cynthia Falardeau. “Whether you swim, float, paddle or pedal a watercraft out there, it’s a big neighborhood party on the water. It’s probably the biggest aquatic networking event of the year.”

Falardeau said one of her favorite parts of the event is reconnecting with people she may not have seen all year.

“I end up seeing people I haven’t seen for years, just out bobbing around and catching up,” she said.

The official gathering begins at 8 a.m., although many participants arrive at sunrise and continue throughout the morning. The wreck sits approximately a quarter-mile offshore, and on clear days participants can often enjoy remarkable visibility and views of the marine life surrounding the historic site.

The event’s welcoming atmosphere is one of the reasons it continues to attract people of all ages and abilities.

“It’s so much fun, even if you’re not a strong swimmer,” said participant Susan Hanner. “Being pulled out in a rubber boat by a great friend is awesome.”

For Strazzulla, whose daughter Kelly joins the celebration each year on a float, the event’s meaning is simple.

“It’s not really about the swim anymore,” Strazzulla said. “It’s about community.”

First-time participants are encouraged to join in whatever way feels comfortable. Whether swimming, paddling, floating or simply enjoying the morning with friends and family, Swim to the Wreck offers a uniquely Vero Beach way to celebrate Independence Day.

Additional information can be found on the Facebook event page https://bit.ly/Sunrunners_swimtothewreck . No registration or RSVP is required.