Get ready for barbecue, apple pie and fireworks, because the 4th of July is just around the corner. While it can be fun to celebrate this holiday in your own backyard, Independence Day also provides a great excuse to get into town—or perhaps even venture out further. There are many events starting back up following pandemic closures in the Los Gatos area that offer fun for families, and whoever wants to have a patriotic blast on a hot summer day.
Right at home, the Town of Los Gatos is hosting an event at Oak Meadow Park from 11am to 3:30pm. The San Jose Wind Symphony, guest conducted by Dr. Troy Davis, is set to begin playing at 1pm. Along with a flag raising, you can expect the usual Vasona Lake County Park attractions, such as the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad, snack shop and amazing views. Admission is free, but parking is limited. And guests are advised to bring their own lawn chairs, wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water. After all, meteorologists say it’s going to be a warm one.
Heading out of town—but still in proximity—the 8th Annual Fourth of July Fireworks Festival at Almaden Lake Park is only about a 15-minute drive outside of Los Gatos and also features plenty of games for kids, live music, food and more. The event starts at 3pm and the fireworks show starts around 9:15pm. Admission is free, aside from the purchase of food and drinks within the park. People often go to Communications Hill to get a good view. However, the residential area gets quite crowded every year, so be mindful of the traffic. And remember to be respectful of the people who live in the neighborhood.
If you’d like to burn some calories before your big dinner, the Santa Cruz Rotary Club is hosting the Firecracker, a race that starts and ends in the Harvey West Park. There are three race lengths: a 1K for kids, which starts at 8am; a 5K that begins at 8:40pm; and a 10K that starts at 8:30pm. Admission for the races is $20, $40 and $45, respectively. This is the 38th annual Firecracker and proceeds go towards Girls Inc. of the Central Coast, a non-profit organization that focuses on empowering young women. The 10K route features a section in Pogonip Park, as well a jaunt along a meadow by the University of California, Santa Cruz.
For those who are willing to head to San Francisco, the traditional fireworks show, which can be seen from the Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, starts at 9:30pm. In contrast to the events happening in the daytime, guests are advised to dress warmly, as the weather gets cold and windy after the sun sets.
These are just a few of the many parades, fireworks displays and unique gatherings within striking distance. Other possibilities include a block party in Boulder Creek, parades in the North Bay and the annual San Francisco Symphony performance and fireworks show at Shoreline Amphitheatre. Regardless of where you’re planning to celebrate, remember to wear lots of sunscreen, drink water and account for traffic. Stay safe, have fun and celebrate mindfully.
Here’s a complete list of sanctioned firework locations:
