The Glorious Fourth edition! Enjoy looking at the colored fog!
San Francisco’s Fourth of July Waterfront Celebration
When people ask “When do the fireworks start?” this is what they mean. The family-friendliest place to watch may be from the room of your apartment building, but failing that, the party at Aquatic Park has live music, food, kids’ activities, and, of course, fireworks that may or may not be visible. KISS-FM provides the simulcast soundtrack, should you care to tune in.
When: Fri., 7/4, 2-10pm (Fireworks begin at 9:30pm); All ages; Free.
Where: Fisherman’s Wharf Aquatic Park, Jefferson Street (at Hyde Street), San Francisco; 415-674-7503, fishermanswharf.org.
San Francisco Mime Troupe in Dolores Park
Even if your kids are too young to get the political references, they’ll love lying on a blanket in the park and taking in the show.
When: Fri.-Sun., 7/4-6, 1:30-3pm; All ages; Free.
Where: Dolores Park, between 18th and 20th Streets and Dolores and Church Streets, San Francisco; sfmt.org.
Pier 39 Fourth of July Waterfront Celebration
Best for kids who want something zippier than face-painting, this party’s main attraction is lengthy sets by two popular San Francisco cover bands, Big Bang Beat and Tainted Love, along with the glittery touristy allure of Pier 39’s shops and restaurants itself. Unless the fog rolls in, Pier 39 is an excellent spot to view the city fireworks show. If the fog rolls in, of course, no one’s going to see the show.
When: Fri., 7/4, 1-10pm; Age 7+; Free.
Where: Pier 39 , Embarcadero Street (at Beach Street), San Francisco, pier39.com.
July 4th Family Festival at the Cannery
A family-friendly alternative to fireworks shows that don’t even start until long past bedtime, the Cannery party features live music, face painting, and food booths.
When: Fri., 7/4; 11am-3pm; All ages; Free.
Where: The Cannery at Del Monte Square, 2801 Leavenworth Street (at Columbus Street), 415-771-3112, delmontesquare.com.