Light up the sparklers and prepare to celebrate America’s Independence Day with a bevy of parades, festivals and, of course, fireworks! There are numerous celebrations throughout the 209 area on the 4th of July and the days leading up to it. Here are just a few:
ATWATER
The Atwater 4th of July events will begin with the Run for Independence at 7:30 a.m. July 4 at Ralston Park. The 2 and 5 mile fun runs go through and around the city of Atwater. The annual 4th of July parade will start at 9 a.m. at the corner of Elm and Winton Way, then left onto Broadway, left onto 3rd Street and ends at the corner of Juniper and 3rd streets. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. there will be a festival at Ralston Park complete with games, rides, vendors and food booths. After the Festival at Ralston Park, the celebration moves to the Castle Commerce Center for a concert and fireworks show. Gates open at 6 p.m. and close at 9:15 p.m., just before the fireworks start. Entertainment includes KABX Radio Host Dave Luna as the MC, followed by performances from Troublesome. Numerous food trucks and vendors will be onsite including a vendor with light up toys for the kids. The celebration then concludes with the largest fireworks show in the Central Valley. Entry fee is $20 per car or walk-ins $5 per person with all proceeds going to help fund next year’s celebration.
To sign up for the Run for Independence, visit: mercedrunningclub.com.
For more information on the Atwater 4th of July festivities, visit: atwater4thofjuly.org.
COLUMBIA
Columbia State Historic Park will celebrate the nation’s birthday the old-fashioned way with many activities the 49ers enjoyed way back when. A glorious parade will make its way up Main Street starting at noon on July 4th. A patriotic concert by the Great Mother Lode Brass and Reed Band, dancing in the street, and contests popular in the early days of Columbia, including the greased pole climb, egg relay race, watermelon eating, bucket brigade, cake walk, nail pounding, egg toss, and a five-way tug-of-war, will be held until 4 p.m. Come early for the best parking and bring lawn chairs. The festivities begin with a ceremonial flag raising and black powder musket salute at 11 a.m.
MANTECA
Join Manteca Sunrise Kiwanis and the City of Manteca for an unforgettable celebration at Manteca’s annual Independence Day Parade. Every July 4th, Main Street comes alive with the vibrant procession honoring the theme of the year. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. sharp, starting at Main and Jason and winding its way to Center and Sycamore. Later that night, make your way to Big League Dreams Complex for a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m.
For more information, visit sunrisekiwanis.org.
LATHROP
The City of Lathrop combines Independence Day with a celebration of the city’s incorporation anniversary with a festival starting at 6 p.m. July 1 at the Lathrop Generations Center. The event will include food trucks, vendors, carnival games, rides and inflatables, kids entertainment, and live music from Breakfast Klub. The event will conclude with a fireworks display. For more information, visit: ci.lathrop.ca.us/parksrec/page/july-1st-celebration
STOCKTON
Get ready to celebrate Independence Day in style at the 4th of July Parade in Downtown Stockton. This beloved community event is a highlight of the holiday season, drawing crowds of all ages to downtown Stockton. Join in at the Weber Point Events Center for a day packed with fun and excitement.
The parade kicks off at 11 a.m. sharp and the route starts at DeCarli Plaza, heads north on El Dorado Street to Oak Street, turns west on Oak Street to Center Street, and then goes south on Center Street to Weber Avenue. Marvel at the vibrant floats, marching bands, and community groups as they make their way through the heart of Stockton. After the parade, stick around for the festival starting at 12 p.m. at the Weber Point Events Center. Enjoy live entertainment, delicious food vendors, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
As the sun sets, prepare to be dazzled by a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky at 9:30 p.m. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss.
GUSTINE
Gather your family and friends for a day of patriotic fun at Gustine’s Fourth of July celebration. The Gustine Chamber Of Commerce 4th Of July Parade kicks off the festivities at 10:30 a.m. with a colorful procession through Main Street to Henry Miller Park. After the parade, head to Henry Miller Park for the City Of Gustine 4th Of July In The Park Celebration. Enjoy live music, DJ entertainment, and a variety of kids’ games. Don’t miss out on the Aquatics Center, cornhole tournament, and delicious food and craft vendors. As the day winds down, grab your blankets and chairs for the spectacular 14th annual fireworks show at Gustine High School Football Field. It’s a day of community celebration you won’t want to miss.
TURLOCK
Join the excitement in Turlock for an Independence Celebration packed with family-friendly activities. The events will start with an evening parade at 6:30 p.m. June 27 down Main Street, followed by a drone show at 9 p.m. The annual car show will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 28, which will coincide with the Turlock Certified Farmers Market and Makers Market, all downtown. For more information, visit www.turlockdowntown.com/usa
MODESTO
Since 1874, Modesto has honored the Fourth of July with a lively parade winding through downtown streets. This year’s parade, organized by the Modesto Kiwanis Club, promises to be a highlight of the holiday festivities. Join the crowd on July 4th at 9:30 a.m. and enjoy the themed floats, marching bands, and community spirit that define this beloved tradition. It’s a chance to come together with your neighbors and celebrate the red, white, and “bloom” of Independence Day in the heart of Modesto.
LA GRANGE
Head to Don Pedro Lake for a spectacular Fireworks-on-the-Water show at 9:30 p.m. July 4th. Set against the stunning backdrop of the lake, this annual event promises an evening of enchantment and celebration. Reserve your campsites early and make a weekend of it, enjoying the beauty of the lake during the day and the magic of fireworks at night. Whether you’re camping with family or friends, don’t miss this opportunity to create cherished memories under the starlit sky at Don Pedro Lake.
LOS BANOS
Los Banos Downtown Association invites you to kickstart your Fourth of July celebrations early with a spectacular event on June 28th at Henry Miller Plaza. Join the vibrant atmosphere as the streets of Los Banos come alive with excitement and community spirit. From diverse vendors offering delicious food and unique crafts to arts and crafts booths where you can unleash your creativity, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Groove to the beats of local musicians at the live music stage and unwind in the beer garden with refreshing beverages. But the fun doesn’t stop there—experience the thrill of classic carnival rides and games scattered throughout the event area, providing excitement for thrill-seekers of all ages. The highlight of the evening will be fireworks extravaganza at 9 p.m., illuminating the night sky and commemorating the spirit of Independence Day.
