The best Fourth of July events in San Francisco

Spend July 4th at Pier 39 for what’s become the go-to firework-watching party in San Francisco. Enjoy street performers, live music and delectable bites. Fireworks will be shot off from barges at Aquatic Park and Pier 39 around 9:30pm. Pro-tip: The walking areas next to the Franciscan Crab Restaurant offer phenomenal, usually less-crowded views of the sky. 

If you’re proud to be an American, offer a salute at the USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum. This retired aircraft carrier served for three decades, seeing action in WWII, the Vietnam War, the Cold War and the recovery of the first two lunar landing space missions. The old vessel is taking it easy nowadays, hosting a 4th of July party that will feature a live DJ, great views, and food and drink. Sadly, once again there will be no firework display on the ship, but the event will end early enough for you to go to your favorite spot to catch a nearby display. 

The San Francisco Symphony is holding its traditional classical concert at the iconic outdoor venue Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View. Tickets range from $29 to $103 and doors will open at 8pm. Songs will be fit for the whole family, with hits including the “Star-Spangled Banner,” “Let It Go” from Frozen,” “Mambo” and “Cool Fugue” from West Side Story,” and more. The show will end with a fireworks display as its grand finale.

The charming wine country town of Sonoma is holding its classic 4th of July celebration,  including food, drink and game booths from 10am to 5pm The annual parade starts at 10am where it winds its way down the historic plaza, down First Street East and Spain Street. Afterward, stop by a local winery or tasting room—after all, you're in Sonoma.

Taking place from Stockton Avenue to Magnolia Avenue in San Jose, the Rose, White and Blue Parade & Festival is planning to have an in-person event this year to showcase and celebrate local residents, businesses, and organizations. Get ready for a car show, live music, food, and shopping from local vendors—and it's free to attend. 

Half Moon Bay is celebrating its 52nd annual 4th of July festivities. The day will kick off with a pancake breakfast in the City Hall parking lot from 8am to noon. The parade will then start at noon, going down Main Street. The day is largely music-focused, but don't miss the slew of craft beer, wine, cocktail, and food vendors there to keep you refreshed.

Every year, Healdsburg—a charming town in Sonoma County—welcomes families downtown for the annual 4th of July parade and celebration in the town's historic plaza co-hosted by the city and the local Rotary Club. The event is a fun attraction for the Enjoy live music and activities, including lawn games, Duck Dash Races, face painting, and a parade that begins at 11am.

Join CrawlSF for two days of pub hopping on Saturday, July 1 and Tuesday, July 4. Bar stops include R Bar, El Lopo, Mayes, Mcteagues, Barley, Lush Lounge and more. Guests will get a selection of discounted cocktails, beers and shots. Plus there's the hotdog eating competition, if that kind of thing floats your boat. Tickets are available for both days. You can check in for the pub crawl anytime from 4pm to 8pm at Mayes Oyster House.