Fourth of July means one thing: Bring on the fireworks! The Bay Area is the perfect place to see bright colors light up the sky with beautiful waterfronts as the backdrop for a vibrant celebration of independence. Here’s our list of must-see fireworks displays for families to enjoy this summer.
San Francisco
Pier 39 Fourth of July Celebration
Color and wonder will once again fill the sky on Pier 39 this Fourth!. The annual tradition is a real treat for families with great views across the waterfront. Fireworks ignite the sky from two locations, Municipal Pier and Pier 39. Insider Tip: the best views are from: Aquatic Park, the Cannery, Ghirardelli Square, Fisherman’s Wharf and Coit Tower. Mon., Learn more.
Fourth of July with the San Francisco Symphony
Looking for a night of music capped off with beautiful fireworks? The San Francisco Symphony has you covered. Its Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular is packed with nostalgia and melody. Mon., Get your tickets.
Red, White and Blue Cruises
There are a host of cruise options for families who choose to see their fireworks from the water versus land. A few include: Blue and Gold Fleet, Red and White Fleet and a Fireworks Sail on the Bay via Schooner B.
Fireworks on the Water
Spend an unforgettable evening on the water with spectacular front-row seats for the fireworks show aboard a Hornblower Cruise. Choose from the dinner cruise or a brunch daytime cruise for the most memorable Fourth yet! Mon., Event details
East Bay
Fireworks Spectacular
Pack your blanket and lawn chair and get an early start on fireworks fun at the Fireworks Spectacular at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Set for Friday, July 1, be ready to be amazed. View the display anywhere on the Fairgrounds with the best viewing over the Stella Artois Grandstand. The spectacular will begin after the concert performance. Fri.
Concord Fourth of July Fireworks
The city of Concord is happy to welcome back families and visitors for its annual Fourth of July celebration. Fireworks begin at 9pm at Mt. Diablo High School. Note: Gates open at 6pm so arrive early to get a good seat! Mon., More info.
Pleasant Hill 4th of July Celebration
This year, the party is an all-day event starting with a 5k followed by a parade, festival in the park and capping it all off with fireworks. Mon., Event details
July 4th Celebration on the USS Potomac
Climb aboard FDR’s “floating White House” for a cruise around the Bay. Leaving from Jack London Sq, this three hour cruise will include a narrated history lesson while you take in the sights from the water. Mon., Event details
Peninsula
Redwood City’s July 4th Parade, Festival and Fireworks
One of the largest parades in Northern California is back with entries from all over the state. Stay for the festival’s art and crafts booth, battle of the bands and kids zone. Also, check out the chalk festival all weekend long and cap off the celebration with a fireworks spectacular. Mon., Event details
Foster City 4th of July Fun
We love this event because in addition to the usual July 4th festivities with food, music and fireworks, a dog parade means all furry friends can join in on the fun, too! Mon. Event details
South Bay
Fourth of July at California’s Great America
Cue “America, The Beautiful.” After a full day riding winding coasters and water slides at the fun-packed South Bay Shores water park, witness the skies set ablaze in a brilliant show set to patriotic tunes. Mon., Event details.
Milpitas July 4th Pool Party, Concert & Fireworks
Let the kids cool off in the pool before enjoying a climbing wall, food trucks, video game truck, a concert and fireworks. Mon., Event details
Independence Day Celebration, Cupertino
Fireworks fun continues in Cupertino with the De Anza Optimist Club hosting their annual pancake breakfast event at the Quinlan Center starting at 7:30 AM followed by kids activities, a parade, concert at Memorial Park and fireworks in the evening. Mon., Event details
Morgan Hill Freedom Fest
A tradition since 1876, Morgan Hill’s Freedom Fest is packed with fun for all ages. Festivities include a car show, patriotic sing, family street dance, live entertainment AND must-see fireworks. Mon., Check it out.
Gilroy’s Annual Fireworks Show
Grab those lawn chairs and head down to Gilroy for some family fun. The show will take place beginning around dusk at approximately 9:30 PM, originating from Gilroy High School. Fireworks can be viewed from nearby neighborhoods and at Christmas Hill Park. Mon., Event details
Marin & North Bay
Sausalito July 4th Festivities
Catch a parade followed by a picnic, live music and a fireworks show in the evening. Sure to be a full day of fun festivities for the family. Mon., Event details
July 4th Picnic and Fireworks, Benicia
City Park will be filled with food, drinks, crafts, live music and kids’ activities in the ultimate hometown July 4th celebration. A robust fireworks show is the crescendo! Mon., Event details
American Canyon 4th of July Celebration
Celebrate America’s birthday with a concert in the park, parade and finish the day off with one of the best firework shows in the North Bay! Mon., Event details
Sonoma’s Hometown 4th of July Celebration
Partnering with the Volunteer Firefighter Association, this year’s fabulous July 4th party starts with a parade, moves on to a festival and ends with a fireworks show in the ultimate July 4th celebration. Mon., Event details
—TaLeiza Calloway-Appleton and Christine Lai
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