Finally! The long weekend is here. But if you haven't planned a fabulous getaway, don't worry — there's plenty to do around the Bay for the 4th of July holiday. This week's installment of Hoodline's Bay Area Summertime Happenings rounds up some fun ways to celebrate in the city, the South Bay and the East Bay.

As always, be mindful of safety measures and double-check event details ahead of time. These events tend to be very popular, so allow time to arrive early and plan ahead to take public transportation or at least to know where you'll find parking.

San Francisco – Waterfront Fireworks

Watch the city's fireworks show from the Hyde Street Harbor and Fisherman's Wharf area, Pier 39, or from a boat on the water if you book a cruise on one of the many boat and ferry services. Take public transit to avoid traffic and parking issues, arrive early for the best chance at a good viewing spot, and bring warm layers. If you hope to watch from a waterfront restaurant, make reservations ASAP. 

When: Monday, July 4. Fireworks are expected to begin at 9:30 p.m. and run for approximately 20 minutes.
Information: sfport.com/july4

San Jose – 4th of July, Rose, White & Blue Parade, Festival and Car Show

San Jose's classic July 4th event is back with a parade and car cruise followed by the festival, complete with a full schedule of performances; plenty of food, drink and arts & crafts vendors; a car show; and a kids' fun area. 

When: Monday, July 4, parade/car cruise at 9:45 a.m. Festival/car show at 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 
Where: The Alameda, San Jose
Information: www.rwbsj.org

Mountain View – SF Symphony Fireworks Performance

The SF Symphony is putting on an outdoor performance of crowd-pleasing music, from The Star-Spangled Banner to numbers from West Side Story and Encanto, led by conductor Edwin Outwater, at the Shoreline Amphitheatre. The show will finish up with a grand finale of fireworks. Note that tickets are required and parking is $20.

When: Monday, July 4, 8 p.m.
Where: Shoreline Amphitheatre, One Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View
Information: www.sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2021-22/SUMMER-22-Fourth-of-july-shoreline

Alameda – 4th of July Parade

Alameda touts its 4th of July parade as the longest in the nation, with a route of 3.3 miles and some 2,500 participants, including equestrians, dance troops, floats, antique cars, community groups, marching bands and people of all shapes and sizes.

When: Monday, July 4, Race For Midway Shelter at 9 a.m. Parade starts at 10 a.m. Event goes all day.
Where: Parade starts along Park Street from Lincoln Avenue
Information: www.alamedaca.gov/RESIDENTS/Alameda-4th-of-July-Parade

Oakland – A's Fireworks Game

Baseball fans can watch the Oakland A's take on the Blue Jays, then head down onto the field to watch a special Independence Day fireworks show after the game. The A's are offering a special 4th of July promotion with $7.04 tickets. Consider taking BART to the game, but be sure to check the time of the last train. They don't always align with game times!

When: Monday, July 4, 6:07 p.m.
Where: Oakland Coliseum, 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland
Information: www.mlb.com/athletics/tickets/promotions/themes/fireworks

El Cerrito – WorldOne Festival

If fireworks aren't a requirement for your Independence Day enjoyment, check out El Cerrito's annual WorldOne July 4th Festival, which is returning this year after a two-year pandemic hiatus. Expect lots of food, music, rides, bounce houses, local vendors and more.

When: Monday, July 4, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Cerrito Vista Park, 950 Pomona Ave., El Cerrito  
Information: www.el-cerrito.org/702/July-4th-Festival

Santa Clara – Great America 4th of July Celebration

With long-time Bay Area theme park Great America slated to close down permanently in the coming years, fans will want to take advantage of the park's popular rides and its huge new waterpark while they still can. Buy admission to the park on the 4th of July and you'll also get to watch a fireworks show set to music at closing time. The park is also offering an all-you-can-eat cookout of classic July 4th fare for $30.

When: Monday, July 4, fireworks at 9 p.m.
Where: California's Great America, 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara  
Information: www.cagreatamerica.com/events/fourth-of-july-celebration