Fourth of July event at Berkeley waterfront canceled
As the Fourth of July nears, please celebrate safely with only with those in your social bubble, avoid large gatherings and do not set off fireworks in Berkeley.
The City's annual festival and fireworks show at the Berkeley Waterfront will be cancelled, so please protect yourself and those around you by avoiding fireworks and alternative gatherings and following COVID-19 safety guidelines.
Do not use fireworks
Fireworks - including those marketed as "safe and sane" in neighboring communities - are not allowed in Berkeley. Possession or discharge of any fireworks are also banned in East Bay Regional Parks, including McLaughlin Eastshore State Park bordering the Berkeley Waterfront.
When fireworks are not handled and monitored by professionals, they can cause severe injuries and start fires. That's a particular concern in Berkeley's hills, where dry grasses can ignite quickly.
If you see illegal fireworks being discharged, report them to the non-emergency dispatch line at (510) 981-5900.
July 4th festival at the Berkeley waterfront canceled
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 4th of July festival and fireworks show at the Berkeley Waterfront has been canceled.
If you choose to visit, please enjoy the amenities safely. Do not gather at the Waterfront except with people you live with and members of your social bubble. Parks and paths are open, but picnic areas and playgrounds are closed. When you visit, wear a face covering over your nose and mouth when others are within 30 feet, and stay at least 6 feet away.
Vehicle access to the Waterfront will be closed starting at 4pm on July 4.
Note: this message was updated on July 1, 2020 to reflect the closure of the Waterfront to vehicles.
Celebrate safely
Most gatherings are still prohibited due to COVID-19. If you plan to picnic or barbeque, do so only with members of your household or social bubble. While socializing with others in your social bubble, stay outdoors, 6 feet apart, and wear a face covering.
During COVID-19, the safest place to be is at home. Consider staying home this year and enjoying a festive activity with your family:
- Go camping in your own backyard. Set up a tent and enjoy a night under the stars.
- Have a dance off. Light the night with glow sticks and dance to your favorite tunes.
- Enjoy a DIY project with the kids - make a festive snack or craft.
- Create a waterpark at home. Set up sprinklers and a splash pool filled with water balloons.
- Enjoy a professional fireworks show virtually with an online watch party.
