Fantastic Ways To Celebrate July 4th In San Francisco

Wear your topsiders and fleece for a night on SF Bay on a yacht with friends. For just $25 per person, take The San Francisco Spirit to the pyrotechnic delight on the water; the July Fourth cruise starts at 8:30pm and ends at midnight for a party that rocks on the waves. Dress to impress because San Francisco Spirit features a dance floor and three cash bars.

Hornblower Landing, Pier 3, San Francisco, CA? USA, +1 415 788 8866

Comedy and politics collide at SF Mime Troupe’s San Francisco debut, kicking off their 2016 season on the Fourth of July at Dolores Park on 18th Street. Mission Dolores promises gorgeous weather, so carry a hat and your lawn chair and get ready to laugh. The music starts at 1:30pm. SF Mime Troupe, a free performing arts show, gladly accepts donations for their thoughtful and provocative performances.

Dolores Park, San Francisco, CA, USA, +1 415 285 1717

There are few tastier ways of enjoying your holiday than gratify your senses with a luscious earthquake-proof dessert at Ghirardelli Square in North Point. The popular local chocolate-lover’s destination is in the heart of the waterfront. Ghirardelli’s hot fudge sundae is one of the best ways to satisfy a sweet tooth. Catch the sunset afterwards at your choice of waterfront spots in Aquatic Cove, all within a short walking distance.

900 North Point, San Francisco, CA, USA, +1 415 441 2560

Sign up for great non-alcoholic family fun on the gorgeous Angel Island. The big celebration includes live bands, food, and of course, the sparks! Enjoy big, open bay and city views as well as the fireworks show from the pristine island for $120 for adults, $85 for youngsters. Take the ferry from San Francisco or Tiburon.

Angel Island, CA, USA

Get your feet wet the sportsman and sportswoman’s way: Kayak the Bay. City Kayak tours start at $35 an hour, per person and leaves from Pier 40, under the Bay Bridge in Mission Bay. City Kayak, in South Beach Harbor provides beginning to advanced open-water kayaking experiences, including twilight tours. This is a fun way to get a workout and make some new friends.

South Beach Harbor, Pier 40, San Francisco, CA, USA, +1 888 966 0953 or +1 415 294 1050

Great crowds, a festive atmosphere and panoramic vistas await all who climb to the top of Bernal Hill for the July Fourth light show. Stake your claim early, because it gets packed. Bring a blanket and enjoy the Downtown Oakland and San Francisco firecrackers with ample commentary from fellow-party goers. For no-cost enjoyment, Twin Peaks is a second option, offering everyday euphoria and open skies. Prepare for wind and the tragically bad driving and parking situations, compensated only by the awesome peak views.

Bernal Hill, San Francisco, CA, USA

Twin Peaks, San Francisco, CA, USA

You just can’t beat traditional American-style barbeque for July Fourth. Make your holiday totally carefree by teaming up with Baby Blues BBQ for a smorgasbord of the classic char-grilled favorites. Plus, with Baby Blues’ excellent sides, even your vegetarian friends can join the celebration. Top anything and everything with their delicious custom-made hot sauces. Oh—and save room for dessert.

3149 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA, USA, +1 415 896 4250

Cone, or cup? At the top-rated Mitchell’s Ice Cream, these two options are the easiest you’ll face. Serving some of the best ice cream the city has to offer, be ready to gape and stare as people pass you on the way out carrying Mitchell’s mouthwatering frozen concoctions that will have you changing your mind seven times before your number is called. Put a holiday smile on your face with a double. The line’s too long for doubt.

688 San Jose Avenue, San Francisco, CA, USA, +1 415 648 2300

Add America’s favorite pastime to your ‘been-there’ and ‘done-that’ lists. Take in an all-star baseball game at the SF Giants’ AT&T Park, home of the 2010, 2012, and 2014 MLB champions. The July 4th game starts at one o’clock. Grab a hotdog and their other great gourmet food, and cheer on the SF Giants as they rage against the Rockies. Take in the Mission Bay before or after the game. Doesn’t get better than this.

AT&T Park, 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA, USA, +1 415 972 2000

Make this Independence Day swanky. All world-class cities have their haute culture, and San Francisco is no exception. Break away from the mustard-and-ketchup crowd and go large with the San Francisco Symphony live orchestra performances with a backdrop of fireworks at the Shoreline Amphitheatre.

1 Amphitheatre Pkwy, Mountain View, CA, USA, +1 415 864 6000