Celebrating the 4th of July in Monterey County: Parades, Fireworks, and Fun!

The 4th of July is a time of celebration across the United States, commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It's a day filled with patriotic pride, fireworks, parades, and community gatherings. Monterey County, with its rich history and vibrant community spirit, is a fantastic place to experience the festivities. Let's dive into the exciting events and traditions that make the 4th of July in Monterey County truly special.

A Brief History of the 4th of July

Independence Day marks the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence, which had been drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson. This historic document declared the 13 American colonies free from British rule, laying the foundation for a new nation built on the principles of liberty, equality, and self-governance.

The first celebrations of Independence Day included public readings of the Declaration, parades, concerts, and the firing of cannons and muskets. These traditions have evolved over the centuries, but the spirit of celebration remains the same, with fireworks, barbecues, and parades being central to modern-day festivities.

Monterey County's 4th of July Celebrations

Monterey County is known for its picturesque coastal towns, rich history, and strong sense of community. The 4th of July celebrations here reflect this unique character, with events that bring residents and visitors together to celebrate America's independence. Here are some highlights of the festivities in Monterey County:

Monterey’s 4th of July Celebrations

4th of July on the Wharf – Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf will be festively decorated for 4th of July, offering wonderful photo opportunities for your family and friends.

Pancake Breakfast and Parade – 7:30 AM: Start your day with a pancake breakfast with Monterey firefighters.

10:00 AM: Enjoy a spectacular 4th of July parade that marches down Alvarado and Calle Principal. The parade is expected to take approximately one hour to pass along a route through downtown Monterey along Alvarado Street and wrapping around to Calle Principal.

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Monterey State Historic Park celebrates our country’s independence with a special Living History Day in the Memory Garden. After the City Parade, bring the whole family for some historical fun! Demonstrations include blacksmithing, rope making, leather stamping, 19th-century games, military drills, and historic music and dancing. Admission is free and a donation of $5 is suggested per family.

11:00 AM - 5:00 PM: The City of Monterey’s free “July 4th Celebration and Backyard Food Fest” will be held at Colton Hall Lawn at Pacific Street. The event includes music, food, and fun for the whole family until 5 PM.

12:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Uncle Sam will be at Candy World for more photo ops and giving out free flag-themed salt water taffy.

2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Look out for the sparkly red, white, and blue stilt walker who will be all dressed up and entertaining the crowd. Find this red, white, and blue lady for photos and high-fives along the wharf as we celebrate the 4th of July together.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Enjoy a free performance in front of Rockfish Harbor Grill by the Loma Linda Academy String Orchestra featuring 30 talented musicians. In addition to their beautiful classical light repertoire, they will add some patriotic pieces to honor the 4th of July.

Pacific Grove Independence Day Celebration

Pacific Grove, often referred to as "America's Last Hometown," celebrates Independence Day with a charming, small-town vibe. Local businesses, community groups, and residents participate, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce invites you to join the Independence Day Celebration on Thursday, July 4, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Jewell Park.

The festivities will kick off with a live reading of the Declaration of Independence by the Rotary Club of Pacific Grove. Following this, enjoy a moving performance by the Monterey Peninsula Voices choir, singing the National Anthem and a medley of Armed Forces anthems.

The celebration continues with live music by the Rogue Roosters, an antique military vehicles show, and the distribution of free T-shirts at 1:00 PM. The Youth Ambassadors of Pacific Grove will host kids' activities, face painting, and a BBQ.

Support the Youth Ambassadors by purchasing a BBQ meal:

Hamburger or Hot Dog Full Meal: $15 (includes chips, drink, and apple pie & ice cream)

Cheeseburger Meal or Hot Dog Meal: $10 (includes chips and drink)

Kids Hot Dog Meal: $5 (includes chips and drink)

Apple Pie & Ice Cream Only: $8

Tickets can be purchased in advance. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day with your community at Jewell Park!

Carmel-by-the-Sea's Annual 4th of July Celebration

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a more laid-back yet equally festive celebration. Devendorf Park becomes the center of activities, with live music, food vendors, and a delightful children's parade. The park's serene setting provides a perfect backdrop for a relaxing afternoon with family and friends.

Join us for an old-fashioned, family-style celebration at Devendorf Park, across from Carmel Plaza on Ocean Avenue. The festivities will take place on July 4th from 10 AM to 3:30 PM.

The main event, a 90-minute concert, will start at 2 PM. Before that, you can enjoy an open rehearsal and soundcheck from 10 AM to 12:30 PM.

The program will feature various patriotic and Americana favorites, including "God Bless America" by Irving Berlin, the National Anthem sung by Jackie Craghead, an Armed Forces Salute, a Prayer for Ukraine, and will close with the Finale to the 1812 Overture by Tchaikovsky.

Come and enjoy this festive and patriotic celebrations with your family and friends!

Monterey County's 4th of July celebrations offer a perfect blend of history, community spirit, and festive fun. Whether you're watching a parade, enjoying a BBQ, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and join in the celebrations to create unforgettable memories this Independence Day in Monterey County. Happy 4th of July!

Photo by Paul Weaver on Unsplash