Celebrate Fourth of July in the East Bay Area
As an East Bay resident and community advocate, there’s nothing I love more than celebrating Independence Day surrounded by sunshine, local pride, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're drawn to parades, live music, dazzling fireworks, or looking for something unique like a drone show, this is your go-to guide for East Bay Fourth of July events.
From classic small-town parades to new traditions along the 680 corridor, there’s something happening in every direction. Let’s dive in.
Free Events & Fireworks
Concord – Parade, Concert & Fireworks
When: July 4, 8 AM–10 PM
What to Expect: Start your day with a patriotic 5K fun run, followed by a parade through Todos Santos Plaza at 10 AM. The afternoon features live music, food trucks, a carnival, and a free fireworks show near Mt. Diablo High School.
Perfect For: Families, foodies, and fireworks fans.
Danville – Kiwanis Fourth of July Parade
When: July 4, 9 AM–Noon
What to Expect: Celebrating 50 years, this beloved downtown tradition highlights community pride with floats, bands, and patriotic fun.
Perfect For: Classic parade lovers.
Orinda – Parade + Park Festival
When: July 4, 7:55 AM–1:30 PM
What to Expect: Flag-raising and morning run, a parade at 10 AM, followed by a family-friendly festival in the park with live music and local vendors.
Perfect For: Early risers and park lovers.
Pleasant Hill – Parade, Festival & Fireworks
When: July 4, 9:30 AM–10 PM
What to Expect: A full-day affair: parade, festival with live music and food, and evening fireworks at College Park High School. Suggested donation: $4.
Perfect For: All-day celebrators.
Martinez – Downtown Parade
When: July 4, 10 AM–Noon
What to Expect: Small-town charm at its finest, with a festive Main Street parade.
Perfect For: Families and local pride.
Alameda – Nation’s "Longest Parade"
When: July 4, 10 AM
What to Expect: A 3.3-mile parade route with marching bands, community floats, and vintage cars. It’s considered the longest July 4th parade in the country!
Perfect For: Parade lovers who want the full experience.
Search Tip: Alameda longest July 4 parade
Moraga – Dog Parade + Fireworks
When: July 4, 11 AM–9:30 PM
What to Expect: Start the day with a crowd-favorite dog parade, then enjoy music, family activities, and end with fireworks at Commons Park.
Perfect For: Pet lovers and families.
Ticketed & Unique Experiences
Mare Island (Vallejo) – Drone Light Show
When: July 4, 5:30 PM–Late
What to Expect: Food trucks, kids' activities, live performances, and an innovative drone light show instead of traditional fireworks.
Tickets: $10 adults / $5 kids (under 10 free)
Perfect For: Tech lovers, sensory-sensitive viewers.
San Pablo – Multicultural Fest & Drone Show
When: July 4, 5–9 PM
What to Expect: A festive mix of carnival games, global food booths, and cultural performances. The evening wraps with a stunning drone light show.
Admission: Free
Perfect For: Those seeking something new and inclusive.
USS Hornet (Alameda) – Steel Beach BBQ + Fireworks
When: July 4, 10 AM–5 PM
What to Expect: Celebrate on a historic aircraft carrier! Enjoy BBQ, drinks, music, ship tours, and views of nearby fireworks.
Tickets: Around $39
Perfect For: History buffs and BBQ fans.
Tips for Planning Your Day
Start early: Fit in a morning run, flag ceremony, or parade.
Pick your evening: Fireworks and drone shows fill up fast—stake out your spot!
Mix and match: You don’t have to pick just one—do a free morning event and head to a ticketed one at night.
Whether you're spending the day waving flags at a local parade or watching drones light up the sky, I hope this guide helps you find the perfect way to celebrate Independence Day right here in the East Bay.
