Events & Things to Do for Fourth of July in Monterey

Fourth of July in Monterey County offers a host of traditional activities through which visitors and residents alike can celebrate the nation's birthday! Along with plenty of barbecue and concert options, Independence Day in Monterey, Carmel, Pacific Grove, Seaside, and Marina offers no shortage of things to see and do.

Each city offers unique Fourth of July celebrations and events, so we've listed our editor's picks below by city. Explore and plan accordingly!

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Celebrate July 4 in Carmel with an old-fashioned, family-style gathering at Devendorf Park, located across from Carmel Plaza on Ocean Avenue. This beloved tradition returns with a live concert from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM, bringing the community together for patriotic music and festive fun. Before the show, stop by for an open rehearsal and soundcheck between 10am and 12:30pm.

Monterey

Multiple events will take place throughout Downtown Monterey on July 4.

Start your morning at 7:30am with a hearty pancake breakfast with Monterey firefighters, followed by the exciting 4th of July Parade beginning at 10am along Alvarado Street and Calle Principal.

4th of July on the Wharf

Old Fisherman’s Wharf will be decked out in red, white, and blue for festive photos and fun throughout the afternoon.

Monterey's Big 4th of July Celebration

Head to Colton Hall Lawn at 11am for the free Backyard Food Fest featuring food, music, and family fun until 5pm.

Living History Day

Step back in time at the Living History Day at Monterey State Historic Park's Memory Garden from 11am to 3pm. Enjoy hands-on activities like blacksmithing, rope making, military drills, and 19th-century games. Free admission, $5 suggested donation per family.

Stars, Stripes & Stories at Cooper-Molera Adobe

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a free, family-friendly event at the historic Cooper-Molera Adobe from 12 PM to 4 PM. Enjoy folklorico performances, hands-on games and crafts, self-guided museum tours, and guided history walks led by Monica Hudson of California Legacy Tours. A perfect way to connect with Monterey’s rich cultural heritage while celebrating Independence Day!

Pacific Grove

Celebrate Fourth of July in Pacific Grove, “America’s Last Hometown,” with a cozy community gathering from 11am to 3pm. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages in a charming, patriotic setting.

Seaside

Don’t miss the Red, White and Blues Festival from 11am to 4pm at Seaside City Hall. Enjoy pony rides, petting zoo, rock wall, bounce houses, face painting, arts & crafts, inflatables, bungee jumping, and live entertainment, along with local food and craft vendors.

Marina

The Marina Fourth of July Block Party takes place from 3:30pm to 8:30pm at the Marina Airport. The celebration will feature a Kids Zone, inflatable bouncy house, beer garden, and more. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a festive afternoon with the Marina community.

Where to Watch Legal Fireworks

While fireworks are prohibited in most of Monterey County, there are a few official displays you can attend safely and legally:

July 3, 9pm – King City: Salinas Valley Fairgrounds ($1 suggested donation)
July 4, 3pm–10pm – Greenfield: Patriot Park with food vendors, live music, and fireworks
July 4, 3pm–10pm – Salinas: Free fireworks show at the Salinas Sports Complex, hosted by Compass Church

Reminder: Fireworks Prohibited

Fireworks of any kind — even those labeled "safe and sane" — are prohibited throughout Monterey County and subject to fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. Leave fireworks to the pros!