The Fourth of July is back in full swing for 2022. After pared-down celebrations the past two years, Bay Area cities and counties are returning to the parades, markets, live music, and fireworks displays that we know and love. With so many incredible opportunities to see fireworks, remember to have fun but leave the pyrotechnics to the professionals.
San Francisco
1. Pier 39
Fisherman’s Wharf is home to a spectacular annual fireworks show over the water that you don’t want to miss. Get a good spot at Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, the Cannery, or anywhere nearby for a show starting at 9:30pm. Check the Pier 39 website for some boat companies and water attractions offering fireworks views from the water.
North Bay
2. Sausalito
Starting with a spirited parade down Bridgeway and Caledonia, the day’s events feature an afternoon picnic with music from Marin locals, The Humdinger Band. Head to Gabrielson Park in the evening for dance music from Neon Velvet and fireworks starting at 9:15pm.
3. Sonoma
The Green Music Center in Rohnert Park will be celebrating with patriotic performances from the Transcendence Theater Company and Santa Rosa Symphony. Performances begin at 7:30pm, followed by fireworks at dusk.
4. Petaluma
The city of Petaluma will put on an exciting fireworks show at dusk from the Sonoma Marin Fairgrounds. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, food vendors and children’s activities throughout the evening.
East Bay
5. Benicia
Hosted at Benicia City Park, this all-day family friendly festival features arts, crafts, food vendors and live entertainment. The post-festival fireworks display starts at 9pm and is best viewed along Marina Green.
6. Antioch
The city of Antioch is pulling out all the stops for a special Sesquicentennial and Fourth of July celebration. With events scheduled from 8am-10pm, this all-day party features a parade, live music and entertainment, restaurants, food courts, craft vendors, a kids zone and more. Fireworks start at 9:30pm over the San Joaquin River.
7. Pleasant Hill
Pleasant Hill is celebrating the 4th with all-day events including a 5K run, downtown parade and live entertainment in Pleasant Hill Park. A fireworks viewing party will be held at College Park, with the show starting at 8:45pm.
South Bay
8. Redwood City
This is one of the largest Independence Day celebrations in Northern California, starting with the Fire Department’s Pancake Breakfast at 8am and ending with an impressive fireworks display at 9:30pm. The parade has been a staple of the celebration since 1939 and attracts thousands of visitors from across the state.
9. Gilroy
Gilroy High School will host a fireworks show around 9:30pm, but there is no on-site viewing available so find a good spot to see them nearby. Follow the city’s Facebook for updates.
10. Morgan Hill
This fireworks show will be a memorable one, as it’s accompanied by live music! See Fireworks on the Green at 9:45pm at 16500 Condit Rd. They have $10 parking for 1000 vehicles and fun activities happening all afternoon. Fun fact: this annual celebration has taken place since 1876!
Featured image: Keneva Photography via Shutterstock