Seasonal & Holidays
Your Guide To Fourth Of July Events In Santa Cruz
Celebrate America's birthday with food, fireworks and more festive fun!
The Fourth of July falls on a Friday this year, and Santa Cruz residents are lucky to have so many ways to celebrate — both in town and just a short drive away. Whether you're after fireworks, food, live music or something else, we’ve got you covered. Just be sure to confirm details with event organizers, as timing, parking, ticketing or weather plans may change.
World’s Shortest Parade
When: Friday, July 4, 2025 — 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Where: Corner of Soquel Drive & State Park Drive (proceeds along Trout Gulch Rd), Aptos, CA
Admission: Free to attend
Click here for more info.
Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July Parade
When: Friday, July 4, 2025 — 12:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Main Street, Watsonville, CA
Admission: Free; bring your own chair
Click here for more info.
Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Roaring Camp Railroads: 4th of July
When: Friday, July 4, 2025— 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Where: Roaring Camp Railroads, 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA
Admission: Ticketed ($32-$47); includes BBQ and family activities
Click here for more info.
Wilder Ranch: Old‑Fashioned Independence Day
When: Friday, July 4, 2025 — 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Where: Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA
Admission: Free event; $10 vehicle day‑use fee
Click here for more info.
Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Santa Cruz Firecracker Race (5K/10K/1K)
When: Friday, July 4, 2025 — 8:00 a.m. (1K fun run), 8:30 a.m. (10K), 8:40 a.m. (5K); continues through mid‑morning
Where: Harvey West Park, Santa Cruz, CA
Admission: Entry fees—$17 Kids 1K, $42.40 5K, $47.40 10K (early registration prices)
Click here for more info.
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