Whether you want to celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, drone shows, races, or parades, there’s lots going on from San Francisco to Santa Cruz. Since most shows don’t kick off until late at night, you can fill up on the best barbecue in the Bay following our guide.
San Francisco
4th of July at Fisherman’s Wharf
Fireworks at Fisherman’s Wharf kick off at 9:30pm sharp. Fireworks will also be launched from Aquatic Park, so Fort Mason is another option for setting up to watch the show. Restaurants, activities, and retail shops will be open. It’s highly recommended to leave your pets at home.
July 4th Community Parade and Celebration
From 12 to 2pm, a parade of musicians, fire trucks, and families will march from Noriega through the sunset dunes. The event ends with a family fun event filled with bounce houses, face painting, live music, bubbles, and fresh apple pie.
4th of July Fireworks Cruise
Get front-row views of San Francisco fireworks along with two drink tickets, snacks, and a relaxing evening at sea. Join the red and white fleet with a history of cruising the waters for over 130 years. Tickets are $139 for adults and $79 for youth.
East Bay
48th Annual 4th of July Parade (Alameda)
Alameda’s 4th of July parade is the longest in the nation with a 3.3 mile route and 2,500 participants. The parade includes horses, dancers, floats, antique cars, community groups, marching bands, and more. The parade starts at 10am, but you’ll want to get there early to secure a spot.
Summer Fun on the 4th at Jack London Square (Oakland)
From 5 to 8pm, Jack London Square is hosting a trivia contest, live music, giveaways, and crafts. If you’re feeling adventurous, board the USS Potomac and hop on a brief cruise from 7:30 to 10:30pm to take in the Bay’s fireworks displays (Tickets are $160).
4th of July Drone Show (San Pablo)
From 5 to 9:30pm, the San Pablo community center is hosting an evening of live performances, carnival games, food trucks, and vendors. At 9pm, the night ends with a drone show. This event is free and open to all ages.
Peninsula
4th of July Festival at the Lagoon (Foster City)
There won’t be any fireworks at Leo Ryan Park this year, but you don’t want to miss an evening of games, food, entertainment, and dog parades. The event starts at 8am and the activities wrap up at 4pm. There will be a pancake breakfast, family games, vendors, and a kids play zone.
40th Annual Chili Cook-Off (Palo Alto)
Stop by Mitchell Park from 11am to 3pm for food trucks, games, live music, and chili tasting. Bring picnic chairs and blankets to enjoy an afternoon at the park. Cash awards will be provided to the top 3 chilis (ranging from $350 to $1000).
4th of July Festival (Redwood City)
This year, Redwood City is lighting up the sky with a synchronized drone show. There’s events spread across town all day long. In the morning, enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Redwood City Fire Department. Then, head over to Courthouse Square for a chalk art. The day also includes a classic car show, a parade, a festival, a concert at the port, and more.
South Bay
Great America Fireworks (Santa Clara)
There’s nothing better than fireworks and roller coasters. But if you don’t want to pay for admission, you can bring a picnic blanket to Mission College where you’ll get a great view of the show along with lawn games, live music, and local food trucks. The Mission College event runs from 5 to 10pm. The fireworks start at 9:35pm.
4th of July Concert + Fireworks (Milpitas)
Milpitas is hosting a Red, White and Boom Concert and Fireworks show from 5 to 9pm. There will be live music, local food trucks, and activities for kids. Presale tickets are $7, but tickets purchased the day of the event are $10.
40th Annual Firecracker Race (Santa Cruz)
There’s no better way to prepare for an evening of barbecue than a race. There’s a child’s 1K, a 5K, and a 10K. Entrance fees range from $17 to $47. All races end in Harvey West Park for live music and awards.
