Seasonal & Holidays
Fourth of July In Santa Cruz: Celebrate America's 250th
From a brand partner: Plan your holiday weekend with local events, fireworks displays and community festivities.
July 4 falls on a Saturday in 2026, giving Santa Cruz residents an extra-long holiday weekend to celebrate. From hometown traditions and community festivals to fireworks displays and family-friendly fun, there are plenty of ways to mark Independence Day close to home.
This year's holiday also coincides with America's 250th birthday, making it an especially memorable time to get out and celebrate. Before heading out, be sure to confirm event details, parking information and weather plans with organizers.
2026 Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Firecracker Run
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Harvey West Park | 326 Evergreen St, Santa Cruz
Admission: $17–$47.40
Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Kick off Independence Day with the 41st Annual Santa Cruz Sunrise Rotary Firecracker Run, a community tradition celebrating both the holiday and America's 250th birthday. Participants can choose from a 10K, 5K or Kids 1K race, with proceeds supporting local youth programs and scholarships throughout Santa Cruz County. You can sign up for the race here.
Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
4th Of July Parade & Block Party
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: 5060 Scotts Valley Dr, Scotts Valley
Admission: Free
A festive hometown tradition returns to Scotts Valley, about 10 minutes away, with the annual Fourth of July Parade and Block Party. The celebration features a community parade, live music, food trucks, a beer garden and a Kids Zone packed with family-friendly activities.
Seabright Santa Cruz 4th of July Parade
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 10–11 a.m.
Where: E Cliff Dr & Seabright Ave, Santa Cruz
Admission: Free
Community spirit takes center stage at the Seabright Santa Cruz Fourth of July Parade, a growing Independence Day tradition that brings neighbors, families, local businesses and community groups together. The festive procession celebrates the holiday while showcasing the unique character of the Seabright neighborhood and the greater Santa Cruz community.
Aptos: “World’s Shortest Parade”
When: Saturday, July 4, 10–11 a.m.
Where: Aptos Village | 448 Granite Way, Aptos
Admission: Free
A quirky local tradition returns to Aptos, about 15 minutes away, with the World's Shortest Parade celebrating America's 250th birthday. Community members, classic cars, golf carts, floats and walkers are invited to take part in the lighthearted procession through town.
Spirit Of Watsonville 4th Of July Parade
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 12:30 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Watsonville
Admission: Free
Historic Downtown Watsonville comes alive on the Fourth of July with the annual Spirit of Watsonville Parade, located about 25 minutes away. Centered on the theme "The Spirit of 1776, The Heart of Watsonville," the parade features creative floats, bands, dancers, costumed performers and community groups celebrating the holiday.
Evenings On The Colonnade: DJ Dance Party
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, & Sunday, July 5, 2026, 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Where: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk | 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz
Admission: Free
Extend the holiday fun at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk's Evenings on the Colonnade, a summer entertainment series featuring live music, magicians, acrobats, DJs and free movies on the beach. The family-friendly events take place throughout the summer, including special live music performances over the Fourth of July weekend.
Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! Looking for even more ways to celebrate? Visit Patch's local events calendar for additional happenings in and around the Santa Cruz area.
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