Fourth of July Celebration
If you're looking for somewhere to celebrate with a bang this Independence Day, there's no better place than the Santa Barbara Waterfront. A full slate of festive, fun, family-friendly events and activities are planned throughout the day, including the return of live music and dance performances! The day will be capped off with a 20-minute fireworks show at 9pm. The fireworks will be fired off from West Beach.
Here's a list of some of the fun on tap...
STEARNS WHARF
4pm: Live music
WEST BEACH BANDSTAND
Noon - 8:50pm: Live music at the West Beach bandstand.
CABRILLO BOULEVARD
11am - 9pm: Festive food and vendor booths.
FIREWORKS
9pm - 9:20pm: Presented by Garden State Fireworks and sponsored by the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department.
If you can't join us at West Beach, tune in to the radio simulcast, courtesy of 92.9 KjEE to enjoy music along with fireworks from anywhere in the city or check out KEYT.com to see the show via live stream. The fireworks display is approximately 20-minutes long and choreographed to classic and current fun and patriotic tunes.
LOGISTICS
PARKING:
Waterfront parking lots will be open on the Fourth of July, with Stearns Wharf closing to vehicular traffic from 3:30PM - 9:45PM. Find more information on beachfront parking lots here.
CAMPING:
Please remember, there is NO camping along the beach (per S.B. Municipal Code 15.16.085). If you do decide to block off a spot the evening prior, you are NOT allowed to physically stay on site. Please be courteous and respectful during the event, and that includes when you find your spot for the day.
GRILLS & BBQ'S:
The use of stationary grills and portable self-contained grills and stoves are permitted only in designated picnic areas or by permit issued by the Parks and Recreation Department. Persons using portable self-contained grills and stoves are responsible for the safe removal of the portable grills and stoves and their fuel sources (charcoal and propane tanks). No dumping of coals is permitted on park or beach property except where there are designated coal disposal receptacles. Grills and stoves shall only be used for cooking purposes and not used as heaters or fire pits. The heated surfaces of table-top portable grills and stoves must be at least six inches above any surface, including picnic tables. (Ord. 5906, 2019)
BICYCLE PARKING:
Riding a bike is a great way to attend the festivities! The City provides additional bike racks during the event.
ROAD CLOSURES
Cabrillo (from Castillo St. to Calle Cesar Chavez) Access Closed:
Closed at 6:00 p.m.
Cabrillo Access Reopen:
10:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
(approximate)
HOTLINE TO REPORT FIREWORKS COMPLAINTS IN NEIGHBORHOODS: 897-2626
HOW TO KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE DURING FIREWORKS SHOW
The loud sounds of fireworks are often very scary for dogs and other pets. Every year, pets run away and get lost because they’re spooked by the loud fireworks.
Here are some tips from the American Kennel Club to help keep your pets safe this July 4th:
Keep Your Dog Away From Fireworks
Keeping your dog inside in the evening on the Fourth of July is the best idea, especially if you fear they might not react well.
Make Sure Your Pet Has Proper ID
More dogs run away on July 4th than any other day of the year. Ensure that the information on your pet’s collar is current and make sure your dog is microchipped and has a GPS device.
Create a Safe Haven For Your Dog
Try setting up an area in a quiet space away from windows — such as a basement or a larger closet — so that they can’t hear or see fireworks. Use a crate if that’s where your dog feels safe, and make sure to provide your pup with familiar toys and treats.
Play White Noise
You can try leaving a fan, TV, or radio on to help mask the sounds of the fireworks.
Comfort Your Dog
If you can, try staying home with your dog or leaving them in the hands of a trusted person.
Petting them can be comforting. Try your best to remain calm and reassuring to help your canine companion.
Walk Them Before the Fireworks Start
Head out for your long walk before the sun sets to increase the chances that you’ll avoid the sounds. When you do go out, you’ll want to ensure your dog is secure on a leash before your walk.
Talk to Your Vet
If your pet’s anxiety is severe, consider booking an appointment with your vet so you can discuss a medication that could help soothe your dog’s anxiety.
For more information about Independence Day activities at the Waterfront, contact:
Angela Rodriguez
City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department
ARodriguez@SantaBarbaraCA.gov
805-564-5519