The Fourth of July is just around the corner! As we prepare to celebrate our nation’s independence, the men and women of the California Highway Patrol want to remind you to leave the fireworks to the professionals.
The protracted drought affecting California has increased fire danger exponentially around the Bay Area. Already we have seen several fires which have affected communities around the region. The use of illegal fireworks has the potential to cause devastation, as a single spark could ignite a huge fire.
Aside from ten communities in the region, ALL fireworks are illegal in the Bay Area. In the following communities, so-called “safe and sane” fireworks are permitted: San Bruno, Pacifica, Union City, Newark, Dublin, Gilroy, Petaluma, Sebastopol, Rohnert Park and Cloverdale. “Safe and Sane” fireworks are approved by the State Fire Marshal, and a list of approved fireworks can be found here http://osfm.fire.ca.gov/strucfireengineer/pdf/fireworks/safesanebookFINAL1.pdf. Please remember to check local ordinances and laws before utilizing any fireworks. Generally, “safe and sane” fireworks do not explode or leave the ground.
There are numerous fireworks displays and Independence Day celebrations across the Bay Area. Our media partners have developed lists of activities where you can enjoy professional fireworks displays and celebrate the Fourth of July.
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
Antioch – Contra Costa Fairgrounds
Antioch’s 4th of July Parade, Festivities and Fireworks – Parade, car show, live music all day, carnival rides, roller derby demonstration, food, games and fireworks starting at 9:15 p.m.! The whole town celebrates this day-long event. Friday, July 4, 2015. (925) 757-4400.
Cerrito Vista Park
2015 City of El Cerrito & worldOne 4th of July Festival – Celebrate Independence Day in El Cerrito and the annual admission-free family-friendly event. Live entertainment, art, and tasty food! Friday, July 3, 2015 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Cerrito Vista Park, 950 Pomona Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530.
Clayton
Clayton’s Rockin’ on the 4th! – City parade on Saturday, July 4, 2015 10a.m. – 12p.m. Oak Street, Clayton, California 94517. (925) 565-0830.
Mt. Diablo High School
2nd Annual 4th of July Festival – A day full of events in Concord: 5k run, parade, picnic, kids carnival, food booths and live entertainment! Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. Saturday, July 4, 2015. 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. 2450 Grant St. Concord, CA 94520 (Only 3 Blocks from Todos Santos Plaza). For more information please call (925)695-7268.
Oakley
Saturday, July 4. Celebration with food and music starting at 6:00pm at Freedom Basin Park featuring jumpies, games, food, music and fireworks at dusk.
Orinda
Parade, Pancake Breakfast, flag raising ceremony, live music games and more! Saturday, July 4, 2015 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Parade begins at 10 a.m. Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563.
Pittsburg Waterfront
Independence Day Fireworks – Celebrate Independence Day on the Pittsburg Waterfront! Fireworks will begin at dusk. Saturday, July 4, 2015. 51 Marina Boulevard. Pittsburg, California 94565. (925) 252-4860.
Pleasant Hill
Celebrating America’s Story – Fireworks begin around 9 p.m. Firecracker 5K Fun Run at 8 a.m., parade at 9:30 a.m., fun at the park at 10:30 a.m. , entertainment, games and more. Saturday, July 4, 2015. Pleasant Hill, Contra Costa, CA 94523.
San Pablo
Live entertainment, food, games, activities and fireworks show at dusk! Free admission. Saturday, July 4, 2015. El Portal Soccer Field. 2600 Moraga Road, San Pablo, CA. For more information please call (510)215-3084.
San Ramon Central Park
Live music, dancing, patriotic celebration, and salute to local veterans. Additional parking will be available at Iron Horse Middle School. Saturday, July 4, 2015 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 12501 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, CA 94583. For more information please call (925)973-3200
A full list of fireworks can be viewed by clicking here.
Please remember, never stop on a freeway shoulder to view fireworks displays. The freeway shoulders are dangerous places, as an errant, distracted, or impaired driver could easily collide with your stopped vehicle and cause a tragedy. If you stop on the freeway for any reason other than an emergency, you will be subject to citation. If you plan to stop on a city street to watch the fireworks displays in your areas, make sure you obey all local posted regulations, and never stop in traffic lanes.
The California Highway Patrol wishes you a safe and enjoyable Independence Day.
