Celebrate July 4th near Stanislaus County: Parades, Fireworks & Family Fun
Looking for patriotic fun this Fourth of July? Check out these standout events celebrating Independence Day around Stanislaus County—from family-friendly parades to spectacular fireworks and hidden local gems.
Modesto Independence Day Parade & Festival
📅 Date & Time: Friday, July 4, 2025 | Parade at 9:30 a.m., followed by post-parade festival
📍 Location: Downtown Modesto, along Park Street to Henry Miller Park
🎉 Highlights:
Community parade featuring youth groups, local heroes, floats, classic cars, and marching bands
Organized by Modesto Kiwanis Clubs—over 150 years strong
Afterward, enjoy food vendors, kid zones, entertainment, and booths at Henry Miller Park
Connect by Scenic Graceada Park (a historic 8-acre space designed by John McLaren) for picnic-perfect photos
Stanislaus County Fireworks at Woodward Reservoir (Oakdale)
📅 Date & Time: Saturday, June 28, 2025 | Fireworks begin ~9:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Woodward Reservoir, Oakdale
🎆 Details:
29th Annual community fireworks event by Stanislaus County Parks
Day-use vehicle tickets $30 (plus dog fee); pre-sale required
Expect several road closures around reservoir for crowd management
Bring your chairs, coolers, and blankets for a laid-back evening under the stars. Day-use areas are open for picnicking, boating, swimming, and more before the show starts.
Riverbank’s 4th of July Celebration
📍 Location: Jacob Myers Park, Riverbank
📅 Date: Thursday, July 4, 2025
🕕 Time: Festivities begin at 6 p.m., fireworks around 9:15 p.m.
Riverbank knows how to throw a party. Their annual celebration includes live music, food vendors, and a fantastic fireworks finale at Jacob Myers Park. This is a great option if you’re looking for a casual evening celebration that’s close to home.
Turlock Independence Day Parade & Drone Show
📍 Location: Downtown Turlock — Main Street to Broadway Park
📅 Date: Friday, June 27, 2025
🕕 Time: Opening ceremony at 6:00 p.m.; Parade at 6:30 p.m., Drone show at 9:00 p.m
The signature Turlock Downtown Independence Celebration kicks off the holiday weekend with evening fun before the Fourth. This year brings back the drone light show in lieu of fireworks—perfect for eco-friendly high-tech patriotism. Crowds gather along Main Street and Center Street for family-friendly entertainment, themed floats, and music.
Bonus: The celebration continues Saturday (June 28) morning with a Car & Makers Market from 8 a.m.–1 p.m., featuring car awards and local vendors .
Livingston 4th of July Festival
📍 Max Foster Sports Complex, 2600 Walnut Ave
📅 Friday, July 4, 2025
🕓 Starts at 4:30 p.m.
Livingston is bringing the fun with live music, carnival rides, food vendors, and a fireworks finale. Admission is free, and you’re welcome to bring lawn chairs—but no outside food or coolers allowed. A great all-ages option if you’re looking for a full evening of celebration in Merced County.
Lake Don Pedro “Fireworks‑on‑the‑Water” Show
📍 Don Pedro Reservoir (La Grange / Fleming Meadows)
📅 Friday, July 4, 2025
🕘 Starts at ~9:30 p.m.
Enjoy a spectacular lakeside fireworks display set above Don Pedro Reservoir, operated by the Don Pedro Recreation Agency. This year’s Annual Fireworks‑on‑the‑Water kicks off at 9:30 p.m., offering a stunning show over the water’s surface.
Planning Tips:
Parking is limited; arrive early. Vehicle admission is $40, vessels $20, and you’ll need a camping or annual pass—purchase ahead, as gate sales may be unavailable
Prepare for a full day of fun: boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking are available at Fleming Meadows, Blue Oaks, and Moccasin Point before showtime
Atwater 62nd Annual 4th of July Festival & Fireworks
📍 Ralston Park & Castle Commerce Center
📅 Friday, July 4, 2025
Atwater’s beloved 62nd Annual 4th of July Festival & Parade kicks off early in the day at Ralston Park, featuring a Run for Independence, parade, food vendors, and family-friendly activities—normally from around 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m
After the park festivities, the party moves to the Castle Commerce Center for an evening concert (featuring bands like “Flashback”), followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Gates open around 6 p.m., and the show concludes at approximately 9:15 p.m. Ticket prices are typically $20 per car, with $5 walk-in entry available