5 Ways to Celebrate July 4th in SF like a Local

San Francisco might not come across as the most patriotic city in America, but that doesn’t mean the City by the Bay doesn’t celebrate. It just celebrates in its own special way. In SF, it’s all about embracing the country’s great outdoors, drinking its wine, and listening to its live music - and yes, watching its fireworks. That said, here are a few ways you can enjoy this Fourth of July weekend like a local.

Fillmore Jazz Festival

Being that jazz is one of the greatest American contributions to music, it’s only right that the Fillmore Jazz Festival is happening this July 4th weekend. Head down to Fillmore Street, between Jackson and Eddy for two days of live jazz, from old-school crooners to new wave-fusion across three different stages. Did we mention it’s free?

Watch the Fireworks from Angel Island

While you’ll probably want to avoid the crowds during Pier 39’s 4th of July celebration, that doesn’t mean you want to miss its fireworks. So do like the locals do and pack a late dinner and some California wine and ferry across to Angel Island on the 4th. This way you’ll get to see the show from a whole different angle - and with the city in the background. And if you’re not into planning, Angel Island is also offering a buffet and ferry service for the event.

Marin County Fair

If you’re lookin’ to get real Americana this July 4th, the Marin County Fair is just the ticket. Held just across the Bay in San Rafael, the Marin County Fair is just that - a good ol’ fashioned county fair. Here you’ll find numerous carnival rides on the Midway, like the Cliffhanger and the Tilt-A-Whirl, as well as nightly concerts, and plenty of delicious fair food. And each night of the fair there’s a fireworks show set over the water, making for a spectacular end to the night.

Music @ Golden Gate Park

This might be the most patriotic of SF’s July 4th events. Set in the iconic Golden Gate Park, the Golden Gate Band is making a special performance for the July 4th, featuring patriotic and American music. The music starts at 1 p.m. on the park’s bandstand in the music concourse. Pack a picnic! And if you can’t make it on Tuesday, there will still be the Golden Gate Band’s usual  Sunday performance on July 2, 2017. This week’s theme is Latin American music.

Stern Grove Festival

The Stern Grove Festival is already in full swing, and this Fourth of July Weekend, there’s an especially good concert coming up. On Sunday, July 2, 2017, at 2 p.m., it’s Fantastic Negrito along with Nicki Bluhm & The Gramblers. Considering that Fantastic Negrito just won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Blues Album, this is one show we won’t be missing.

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BTW - it’s the 50th Anniversary of the Summer of Love, and we’re running some great specials at Stanford Court Hotel, from April 8 - August 20.