Independence Day Events in Petaluma and Beyond
On July 4, 1776, delegates from 13 British settlements along the Atlantic Coast of North America formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. This document severed political ties between the colonies and Great Britain, and marked the birth of the United States as an independent nation.
A lot has happened over the last two and a half centuries. This Sunday, July 4 – the 250th anniversary of that fateful event – is an occasion for both celebration and reflection.
Here’s a rundown of Independence Day events in and around Petaluma to help you do just that.
July 4
Petaluma 4th of July Fireworks Show
This high-altitude fireworks display designed to be seen all over town is launched from the Petaluma Fairgrounds, which will be closed for public safety. Limited paid parking will be available at the fairgrounds parking lot (175 Fairgrounds Drive, Petaluma) beginning at 4 p.m., for a cost of $20 per vehicle.
- Find great spots to view the display here: https://cityofpetaluma.org/4th-of-july-fireworks-show-returns
- Show starts at 9:30 p.m.
July 4th Celebration and Bell Ringing
An uplifting morning of music, history, community, and the ringing of the historic Korbel Bell: a Petaluma tradition since 1962.
- Petaluma Historical Library & Museum
- 20 4th St., Petaluma
- 10 a.m. to noon
- Free; reservations requested
Floathouse Fireworks Paddle
A celebration of light, water, and community on Petaluma’s longest park. Meet at the Floathouse, board a flotilla of people-powered boats, and paddle out to one of the best fireworks-viewing spots on the river.
- 50 Water St., Petaluma
- 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- $60; includes boat rental, guided paddle, personal flotation device, and popcorn
4th of July Fireworks Spectacular
Featuring Transcendence Theatre Company and the Santa Rosa Symphony performing a vibrant mix of Broadway hits and patriotic classics; a kids zone with games and bounce houses; and a fireworks display under the night sky.
- Weill Hall and lawn, Green Music Center, Sonoma State University
- 1801 East Cotati Ave., Rohnert Park
- Kids zone 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.; program begins at 7:30 p.m.
- $46–$76; lawn tickets for kids 12 and under are half price
Novato 4th of July Parade
Runs along Grant Avenue from Reichert Avenue to Seventh Street, Novato, a total of 10 blocks. Lasts about two hours. Preceded by a pancake breakfast from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Redwood Credit Union parking lot (1010 Grant Ave., Novato).
- Pre-parade entertainment from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.; parade starts at 10 a.m.
- Free
July 5
Penngrove Parade
“The biggest little parade in Northern California,” held each year on the Sunday nearest July 4, returns this year on July 5. Tractors, horses, floats, antique military Jeeps, bands, bicycle teams, and more will parade through downtown Penngrove on Main Street. Lasts less than an hour. Followed by barbecue, kids’ games, and music in Penngrove Park (11800 Main St., Penngrove) from noon to 4 p.m.
- Parade starts at 11 a.m.
- Free
