4th of July Celebrations 2023
Whether you're celebrating in Tahoe or staying local, this list 4th of July celebrations throughout Northern California has your holiday plans covered!
Rose, White & Blue Parade and Festival (San Jose): The Rose, White & Blue Parade and Festival takes place in the Rose Garden neighborhood of San Jose. The parade features marching bands, community groups, classic cars, and colorful floats. Following the parade, there is a festival in the park with live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. The event captures a sense of community and patriotic spirit.
WHEN: July 4th | 9:45 a.m. - 12 p.m.
WHERE: The Alameda, San José
Great America Fourth of July Fireworks (Santa Clara): California's Great America amusement park in Santa Clara hosts an impressive Fourth of July fireworks show. The park offers thrilling rides, live entertainment, and attractions throughout the day. In the evening, the fireworks display takes place, illuminating the night sky with vibrant colors and creating a memorable experience for visitors.
WHEN: July 4th, 2023 | Fireworks at park closing at 9:45 p.m. accompanied by a patriotic soundtrack.
WHERE: Great America
Palo Alto 4th of July Summer Festival and Chili Cook-Off: Palo Alto holds an annual Summer Festival and Chili Cook-Off at Mitchell Park. The event features live music, food stalls, a classic car show, arts and crafts vendors, and various activities for children. You can enjoy delicious chili tastings and vote for your favorite recipe. The festival concludes with a fireworks show in the evening.
WHEN: July 04, 2023 | 11:00 AM to 03:00 PM
WHERE: Mitchell Park, 600 East Meadow Drive, Palo Alto,
Morgan Hill Freedom Fest: Morgan Hill hosts a multi-day Fourth of July celebration called Freedom Fest. The festival includes a patriotic parade, live music, food vendors, carnival rides, arts and crafts booths, and a car show. The event culminates with a spectacular fireworks display at the Morgan Hill Outdoor Sports Complex.
WHEN: July 3rd & 4th, 2023
WHERE: see website for event locations
Lights on the Lake Fireworks (South Lake Tahoe): The Lights on the Lake Fireworks display is one of the largest and most renowned Fourth of July fireworks shows in the region. The fireworks are launched from barges on the lake, creating a stunning spectacle. You can find excellent viewing spots along the South Shore, including beaches, parks, and even from boats on the water.
WHEN: July 4th | 9:45PM
WHERE: Terrific viewpoints are Lakeview Commons/El Dorado Beach in South Lake Tahoe and Nevada Beach in between Stateline and Zephyr Cove.
Fourth of July Parade and Festival in Sausalito: Sausalito hosts an annual Fourth of July Parade and Festival that draws crowds of locals and visitors. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, and community groups. Afterward, you can enjoy the festival at Dunphy Park, which offers live music, food vendors, a children's play area, and a stunning view of the San Francisco skyline.
WHEN: The parade will begin at 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Starts on the corner of Second and Main, it moves along Bridgeway to Caledonia Street and ends at Dunphy Park. Following the parade is a town picnic in the park with food, entertainment, and more.
San Francisco Fourth of July Waterfront Celebration: The city of San Francisco hosts a spectacular fireworks show along the waterfront, near Fisherman's Wharf. You can enjoy live music, food vendors, and various activities throughout the day. The highlight is the breathtaking fireworks display over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
WHEN: July 4th | 9:30 pm (or once it's dark enough to start) and lasts around 30 minutes
WHERE: Fisherman's Wharf