Grab your scarf and mittens. It’s almost time to celebrate Independence Day in San Francisco! Like so many other things about this city, it’s foggy and chilly summer makes it special, and it certainly won’t stop us from enjoying the holiday. Here are the main events happening around the city on the Fourth of July this year. For events on the Peninsula, check out Mid-Peninsula Moms Blog.
Mission Terrace 4th of July Parade & Picnic
10:30 AM
Balboa Park, 51 Havelock Ave.
“Bring your kids, your dogs, and deck out your bicycles, strollers, and wagons in red, white and blue. We’ll have an old-fashioned parade through the neighborhood and then enjoy a picnic and entertainment at Balboa Park.”
Golden Gate Park
1:00 – 2:45 PM.
The Golden Gate Park Band performs a free concert at the Spreckels Temple of Music. Other attractions in the park will be open on their regular schedules during the weekend and on the holiday.
Pier 39 Events
All Day
All of Fisherman’s Wharf will be a bustle of activity the whole day leading up to the fireworks, including live music at Pier 39, Aquatic Park, and Ghiradelli Square.
Fireworks
9:30 PM
Find a hilltop, rooftop or spot near the bay to watch the two synced firework displays in the city. One is off of a barge near Pier 39 and the other is near the Municipal Pier. If it’s a clear night, you’ll also be able to see displays taking place in the North and East Bays. Here are tips on how to make the most of the event this year.
SF Symphony Fireworks Spectacular
8:00 PM
Shoreline Amphitheatre, Mountainview
If you plan to be on the Peninsula for the holiday, it’s hard to beat the 31st annual performance of the SF Symphony’s Fireworks Spectacular. This year’s program features an eclectic mix of music and finishes with a fireworks finale.
Free Walking Tours
San Francisco City Guides will offer its normal schedule of free guided tours around the city. Check their website for the schedule and tour topics. Tours begin at 9:30 AM and go until 7:00 PM. Each tour visits a different spot in the city, including Japantown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and North Beach.
Looking for more places outside of the city to celebrate Independence Day? Check out this list from our friends at Funcheap SF.
The San Francisco Mime Troupe
1:30 PM
Dolores Park
The San Francisco Mime Troupe creates and produces socially relevant theater and performs it in parks to reach the broadest possible audience. The Troupe does not do silent pantomime. Mime is in the ancient sense: to mimic. Expect them to perform satire through talking and singing. Free (donation appreciated).
