America’s birthday is just about here, and there are many options when it comes to planning how you will celebrate with friends and family. San Jose and the South Bay area are full of different fireworks displays, parades, festivals and celebrations; the hard part will be to decide where to go for your 4^th of July celebration. I have searched around for the best activities and fireworks displays to share with you. Whatever you decide to do to celebrate the 4^th of July, I hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holiday. Get out and enjoy the spirit of our country, spend some time with loved ones and have a great time.

One of the most popular daytime events for the 4^th of July is the Rose, White & Blue Parade and picnic put on by the Alameda Business Association. This parade is history in the making, as it is a revival of the Rose Carnival which was first held in 1896. There will be live music, dancers, floats and more as the parade winds its way through the beautiful Rose Garden neighborhood, ending at The Alameda where you can enjoy a picnic, check out incredible classic cars and enjoy the artisan crafts market. For more choices on parades to enjoy, you can get an early start with the World’s Shortest Parade in Aptos, which is only 0.6 miles. It begins at 7:00 am and includes a pancake breakfast before and party at Aptos Village Park after the parade.  The 76^th annual Family 4^th parade and festival will give you an entire day and evening of fun in Redwood City. The day begins with a pancake breakfast and fun run hosted by the Redwood City Fire Department. Then it is onto the largest parade in Northern California which is very competitive as it includes cash prizes being awarded. After the parade there is a festival full of live music, arts and crafts and great food, and a battle of the bands. The celebration ends with the Port of Redwood City fireworks display, one of the area’s largest.

For something a little different, yet every bit a part of an American summer, Cupertino has a great 4^th of July celebration, which includes a parade and picnic activities at Memorial park, but you can also cool down in the afternoon with free swimming at Blackberry Farm and enjoy their hosted BBQ. Chili is another favorite American pastime and you experience some of the finest recipes at the 34th annual Summer Festival & Chili Cook-Off at Mitchell Park in Palo Alto. There will be chili and ice cream tastings, live music and lots of kids’ activities on hand, in addition to the chili cook-off itself. There are also awards for the best booth and best spirit, as well as the People’s choice award which you can vote for.

The 4^th of July wouldn't be right without fireworks displays, and we have plenty of incredible choices to pick from for the evening show. Monterey hosts Freedom Fest, a full day of family fun that includes a freedom run, parade, and plenty of fun activities throughout the day at Morgan Hill. The fireworks show is the highlight of the event, with live music, food and drink available as well. If you love baseball, there is nothing like a live game followed by a spectacular fireworks show. The San Jose Giants are playing at home this 4^th and will have a great display after the game. For the biggest show in San Jose, head over to Discovery Meadow for the free fireworks display hosted by the San Jose Rotary. Before the show you can check out San Pedro Square Market for some food and a bit shopping at the artisan booths that are there. Discovery Meadow is a short walk away. Fireworks are set to start at dusk, or close to 9:30 so arrive early to get a great place for your blanket and enjoy the show.

San Jose and the South Bay area is a wonderful place to live and celebrate all that we love about America. When you are ready to buy or sell a home, we at Haylen Group are here to help you with all of your real estate needs! If you are unsure what your options are, call Helen Chong at (408) 800-LIST or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also visit us at our website for available listings and additional information.