From patriotic parades to fireworks over the bay, these are the best 4th of July events in San Francisco and the rest of the Bay Area
Photograph: Shutterstock/Keneva Photography
The 4th of July in San Francisco is back in full force. In the City by the Bay, you’ll find the usual events—from parades to fireworks (though the fog usually makes those a bit of a bust)—but you can also enjoy some nontraditional options (bar crawl anyone?) And, of course, hitting up a new restaurant or bar is always an option.
To help you plan your holiday festivities, we’ve rounded up the best 4th of July events in San Francisco. Head out with the tourist crowds in Fisherman’s Wharf, find a spot at one of the best places to watch fireworks in the Bay Area or simply enjoy some killer ice cream to celebrate—there’s something for everyone.
Spend July 4th at Pier 39 for what’s become the go-to firework-watching party in San Francisco. Enjoy street performers, live music and delectable bites. Fireworks will be shot off from barges at Aquatic Park and Pier 39 around 9:30pm. Pro-tip: The walking areas next to the Franciscan Crab Restaurant offer phenomenal, usually less-crowded views of the sky.
If you’re proud to be an American, offer a salute at the USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum. This retired aircraft carrier served for three decades, seeing action in WWII, the Vietnam War, the Cold War and the recovery of the first two lunar landing space missions. The old vessel is taking it easy nowadays, hosting a 4th of July party that will feature live music, great views and food and drink. Sadly, once again there will be no fireworks display on the ship, but the event will end early enough for you to go to your favorite spot to catch a nearby show.
The San Francisco Symphony is holding its traditional classical concert at the iconic outdoor venue Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View. Tickets start at $35 and the evening starts at 7pm. Songs will be fit for the whole family, with hits including the Olympic Fanfare, David Bowie’s “Heroes” and a trio of Wicked songs. The show will end with a fireworks display as its grand finale.
The charming wine country town of Sonoma is holding its classic 4th of July celebration, including food, drink and game booths from 10am to 5pm. The annual parade starts at 10am where it winds its way down the historic plaza, down First Street East and Spain Street. Afterward, stop by a local winery or tasting room—after all, you're in Sonoma—and stick around after sunset for fireworks over General Vallejo’s field.
Taking place from Stockton Avenue to Magnolia Avenue in San Jose, the Rose, White and Blue Parade & Festival is planning to showcase and celebrate local residents, businesses and organizations. Get ready for a car show, live music, food and shopping from local vendors—and it’s free to attend.
Half Moon Bay is celebrating its 53rd annual 4th of July festivities. The day will kick off with a pancake breakfast in the City Hall parking lot from 8 to 11:30am. The parade will then start at noon, going down Main Street. The day is largely music-focused, but don’t miss the slew of craft beer, wine, cocktail and food vendors there to keep you refreshed.
Every year, Healdsburg—a charming town in Sonoma County—welcomes families downtown for the annual 4th of July parade and celebration in the town’s historic plaza co-hosted by the city and the local Rotary Club. The event is a fun attraction for the whole family. Enjoy live music and activities, including lawn games, Duck Dash Races, face painting and a parade that begins at 11am.
Join CrawlSF for a day of pub hopping on July 4. Bar stops include Del Mar, Westwood, Silver Cloud, Wizards & Wands and more. Guests will get a selection of discounted cocktails, beers and shots. Plus there’s the hot dog eating competition, if that kind of thing floats your boat. Tickets cost between $12 and $25. You can check in for the pub crawl anytime from 4pm to 8pm at Del Mar.
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