Communities across California are gearing up to celebrate America’s Independence Day, from delicious barbecues and live music to parades and fireworks, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
These are just a few examples of the exciting events happening throughout California to celebrate Independence Day. Check with your local American Legion posts, community centers, or city websites for more information on celebrations near you.
4th Annual Rib Cook Off – Sons of the American Legion, Squadron 101
Location: Benicia Veterans Memorial Hall, Benicia, CA
Date: Saturday, July 1st
Time: Tasting begins at 12:45
Details: Join the Sons of the American Legion for their 4th Annual Rib Cook Off. For just $30, you can savor six mouthwatering ribs and side dishes while supporting Veterans in Benicia and Solano County. The event features a bake sale, drinks, trophies, prizes, raffles, billiards, games, and live music.
Red, White & Slough
Location: Veterans and their Families, Benecia, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: 12 pm to 6 pm
Details: Enjoy a family-friendly event filled with live music by Steve Eckert & the 5150 Band. Bring your lawn chairs and indulge in delicious BBQ. Non-Veteran adults are suggested to make a $10 donation.
4th of July Burgers and Hot Dogs – Post 134
Location: 7550 Somerset Blvd, Paramount, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: 2 pm
Details: Post 134 invites you to celebrate Independence Day with a classic American BBQ. Enjoy burgers and hot dogs with your friends and family.
4th of July Party at The American Legion Lincoln-Deming Post 468
Location: 2503 Washington St. Julian, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: 1 pm – 5 pm
Details: After the parade, head over to The American Legion Post 468 for a fun-filled celebration. The Ocean Natives band will provide live music while you feast on smoked brisket or BBQ chicken, coleslaw, and beans.
4th of July Independence Day BBQ by American Legion Post 817
Location: 13553 Reedley St., Los Angeles, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: Noon
Details: Join American Legion Post 817 for a delightful BBQ presented by SALs Celebrate Independence Day with delicious food and a supportive community.
American Legion Post 474 Annual 4th of July Town Picnic
Location: 470 Capistrano Rd, Princeton by the Sea Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Details: Enjoy live music by KUNFUSION, delicious food, games, and an outdoor dance floor at this free admission event. Bring your blankets and folding chairs, and even your well-behaved dogs on leashes.
Fireworks Sale by American Legion Post 95
Location: 2051 Mitchell Ave, Oroville, CA
Date: Throughout the week leading up to the 4th of July
Details: Support the amazing Veteran organization active in the Oroville community by purchasing fireworks from American Legion Post 95.
Red, White and BBQ – American Road Trip Bar & Grill
Location: 33960 Yucaipa Blvd in Yucaipa, CA
Date: July 1st to July 4th
Details: Indulge in a delicious BBQ feast, including chicken, St. Louis ribs, pulled pork, and sides of beans, coleslaw, and corn on the cob. All available for the patriotic price of $17.76.
Independence Celebration – American Legion Post 397
Location: 338 S. Ramona Avenue, Monterey Park, CA
Date: July 1st, 2023
Time: 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Details: This community celebration welcomes everyone with hamburgers, hot dogs, snacks, and a chili contest. Enjoy live entertainment, games, and refreshments at the Legion. The event concludes with a spectacular fireworks display brought to you by the City of Monterey Park.
4th of July Celebration with Kayln & The New Frontier Event by Top Rock Entertainment
Location: Yorba Linda Middle School, 4777 Casa Loma Ave, Yorba Linda, CA
Date: July 4th
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Details: Enjoy a lively concert featuring Kayln & The New Frontier as they perform Top 40, Dance, Country Pop, and Rock hits. Kayln, a contestant from American Idol season 14, will entertain the crowd. Don’t forget to bring your lounge chairs and sun hats to make the most of this fantastic event with your friends and family.
Independence Day Celebration – Westmont Town Court
Location: 500 E. Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: 2 pm – 3:30 pm
Details: Celebrate Independence Day at Westmont Town Court with food, music by Punch & Judy singing American classics, and a joyful atmosphere. Show your patriotic spirit by dressing in red, white, or blue and join in the festivities.
American Legion South Bay, Post 184 – 97th Annual 4th of July Picnic
Location: 412 Camino Real, Redondo Beach, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: Starts at noon to 3 pm
Details: Join the American Legion South Bay, Post 184, for their 97th Annual 4th of July Picnic. Indulge in burgers, hot dogs, ribs, and all the fixings while enjoying a potluck-style event. Bring your favorite dish to share and celebrate with friends. This event is open to the public.
4th of July American Legion Post 416 – Chili Cook-Off and Cake Walk
Location: 210 West F Street, Encinitas, CA 92024-3525
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: Cook-off starts at 11 am
Details: Get ready for some friendly competition at American Legion Post 416’s 2nd annual chili cook-off. Enter the contest for a chance to win prizes and trophies. In addition, there will be a cake walk for more sweet treats and fun.
Fourth of July at Shamel Park – Cambria’s American Legion Post 432
Location: Shamel Park, Cambria, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: Opening ceremonies at 11 am
Details: Join the community for a delightful picnic sponsored by Cambria’s American Legion Post 432. Enjoy food, games, music, and culminate the day with a fireworks show display after dark. Don’t miss out on the raffles and the chance to connect with your neighbors.
American Legion Independence Day Fireworks – Healdsburg Post 111
Location: Healdsburg High School, 1024 Prince Ave., Healdsburg, CA
Date: Tuesday, July 4th
Time: Fireworks start at 9:30 pm
Details: Fireworks show organized by Healdsburg American Legion Sotoyome
If you know of any other 4th of July events happening in your area. We would love to hear your comments.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.