San Francisco has celebrated the Fourth of July for decades with fireworks displays. However, the last time there was an official 4th of July parade in San Francisco was in 1976.

Joel Engardio, a San Francisco city supervisor, is changing that with a new tradition. This year, the Fourth of July parade will be hosted on the Great Highway. The Great Highway Park is a two-mile promenade that runs parallel to the Pacific coast and hosts many activities, including yoga, tai chi, and walk, bike, and roll events.

The Friends of Great Highway Park will host the Independence Day Parade and Picnic on June 29th. There will be people-powered floats, wagons, bikes, and plenty of family activities. Everyone can march in the parade, whether they want to bike, walk, roll, or stroll.

When Is the San Francisco 4th of July Parade?

The parade is on Saturday, June 29th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Event highlights:

• Live music and performers, including the sunset marching band
• Free apple pie
• Lots of games and activities for kids and adults alike

4th of July Float Decorating Party

On Friday, June 28th, the Friends of Great Highway Park will host a decorating party for anyone in the community who wants to decorate their bikes, strollers, and wagons. Streamers, crepe paper, pompoms, and flags will be provided at the event.

Top 4th of July Events in the Bay Area

Celebrate the 4th of July in the San Francisco area with patriotic parades, fireworks, and more.

Fisherman’s Wharf 4th of July Celebration

The Fisherman’s Wharf 4th of July Celebration offers a day filled with fun activities, live music, and delicious food. Visitors can explore the many shops and restaurants in the area, enjoy street performers, and partake in the festivities.

As the evening approaches, the waterfront, Pier 39, is the perfect vantage point for watching the spectacular fireworks display over the bay. Visitors can view the fireworks display from barges at Aquatic Park and Pier 39 around 9:30 PM. You can also get a good view of the fireworks from the walking areas next to the Franciscan Crab Restaurant.

San Francisco Symphony at Shoreline Amphitheater

The San Francisco Symphony features a special program of American classics, songs from Wicked, and contemporary favorites performed by the world-class San Francisco Symphony. The concert will conclude with a grand finale fireworks show, synchronized to the symphony’s performance, creating an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.

Sonoma Old Fashioned 4th of July Parade

A short drive from San Francisco, the Sonoma Old Fashioned 4th of July Parade offers a charming way to celebrate Independence Day. Celebrate the 4th of July in Sonoma with its community-focused parade featuring vintage cars, local bands, and creatively decorated floats.

• Enjoy food, drink, and game booths from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• The fireworks show is around 5:00 PM and lasts 30 minutes
• The annual parade starts at 10:00 AM and winds its way down the historic plaza with around 60 entries

After the parade, the celebration continues with a festival in the town square, complete with live music, food vendors, and games. The day culminates with a fireworks show that lights up the sky, providing a perfect end to a delightful day in Sonoma. You can also stop by a local winery or tasting room after the parade.

Ol’ Fashioned Parade in Half Moon Bay

Another nearby gem is the Ol’ Fashioned Parade in Downtown Half Moon Bay.

The day will kick off with a pancake breakfast in the City Hall parking lot from 8:00 AM to noon.

The parade, which runs from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, embodies the essence of traditional Fourth of July celebrations. Participants will be donning patriotic attire and floats decorated in red, white, and blue. Following the parade, attendees can enjoy a picnic at one of the local parks or visit the charming downtown area, which features shops, cafes, and art galleries. 

The Red, White, & Blue Parade in San Jose

Held in the heart of downtown San Jose, the Red, White & Blue Parade and Festival features an array of colorful floats, marching bands, and local community groups. The event also includes live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The parade starts at 9:45 AM and concludes at 12:00 PM. The festival is from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Fillmore Jazz Festival

While not exclusively a Fourth of July event, the Fillmore Jazz Festival often coincides with Independence Day weekend, making it a great addition to the holiday celebrations. As the largest free jazz festival on the West Coast, it attracts jazz enthusiasts from all over the country. This free two-day event takes place on July 6th and 7th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

The festival takes place along the historic Fillmore Street and features multiple stages with performances by acclaimed jazz musicians. In addition to the music, attendees can explore vendor booths offering art, crafts, and international cuisine.

More Festivities for the 4th of July Celebration

4th of July Fireworks Cruise

• Enjoy a trip around the San Francisco Bay with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridges, and Alcatraz Island.
• View a dazzling fireworks display over the Golden Gate Bridge.

San Francisco Fireworks

• Watch the San Francisco Fireworks from the Municipal Pier, Pier 39, and the Pier 43 walkway.
• The fireworks show will begin at 9:30 PM.
• The fireworks are best viewed from the Hyde Street Harbor and Fisherman’s Wharf area.

More Fun Activities

• Enjoy a free concert at 2:00 PM in Stern Grove Park. This non-profit music festival occurs each day from June 23rd to August 25th.
• Participate in biking around the city, wine-tasting tours, and other fun activities throughout the day.
• Join a free walking tour in the morning or afternoon by SF City Guides and the SF Public Library.

Fourth of July Drunk Driving Accident Statistics

According to the United States Department of Transportation, during the 4th of July holiday period in 2022:

• 487 people who lost their lives in traffic accidents that occurred
• 196 (40%) of those traffic fatalities occurred in drunk driving crashes
• 27% of crashes involved at least one driver or motorcyclist with a blood alcohol concentration at or above .15 g/dL. This is nearly twice the legal limit in almost every state.

Travel Safety Tips

With the increased traffic, it’s important to prioritize road safety during the Fourth of July celebrations in San Francisco. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

1. Plan Ahead: Determine your route and parking options in advance. Consider using public transportation to avoid traffic.
2. Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road and avoid distracted driving. Designate a passenger to handle navigation and music.
3. Don’t Drink and Drive: Never drink and drive. If you plan to consume alcohol, arrange for a designated driver or utilize taxis, rideshare services, or public transportation.
4. Follow Traffic Laws: Follow speed limits, use turn signals, and be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists. San Francisco will be bustling with 4th of July festivities, and extra caution is needed.
5. Stay Alert: Watch for road closures and detours. Pay attention to temporary signage and follow directions from traffic officials.
6. Use Seat Belts: Ensure that all passengers are wearing seat belts at all times. Buckling up can significantly reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
7. Report Drunk Drivers: If you see a drunk driver, call the police immediately and report it.

We Represent Personal Injury Victims

While Independence Day is a time for celebration, accidents can still occur. If you or a loved one have been injured due to another person’s negligence, it’s crucial to consult with experienced personal injury lawyers.

At Golden State Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping personal injury victims get the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.