There’s only one legal way for Piedmonters to enjoy Fourth of July fireworks, and that’s by attending one of the public displays hosted by the handful of municipalities that can still afford to put on an Independence Day spectacle. Here’s a list of (relatively) nearby fireworks. All dates are Wednesday, July 4.
Berkeley - Fireworks light up the sky beginning at 9:30 p.m. Set off at the end of the Berkeley Pier, they can be seen from both sides of the Berkeley Marina at the foot of University Avenue.
Lafayette - Buddha Gate Monastery - This event is actually not put on by the city, but by the monks at the monastery. The vegetarian potluck starts at 6 p.m., the fireworks at dusk. Address: 3254 Gloria Terrace, Lafayette.
Livermore - A grassroots-effort helped bring back a Fourth of July fireworks display in Livermore. This year's display will be coupled with a community gathering to be held at 's stadium, 3000 Campus Hill Drive, from 4 to 10 p.m. $25 per car at the gate and $5 per person via walk-ins. More information at www.livermorefireworks.org.
Oakland - No fireworks on the Fourth, but the Oakland A's will have patriotic-themed fireworks following the Red Sox game the evening before, July 3.
Martinez - The fireworks at Shoreline Park launch at 9:15 p.m. Follow the locals for the best fireworks-watching spots in town. Address: 1 Ferry St., Martinez.
Moraga - Fireworks begin at Moraga Commons Park at 9:30 p.m. (ish) Address: 1149 Moraga Rd., Moraga.
Pleasant Hill - The fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. in Pleasant Hill Park. Organizers advise getting there early and to bring a towel to sit on. Address: 147 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.
San Francisco - Fireworks start at 9:30 from the waterfront. For the first time, Angel Island will be open for viewing the San Francisco fireworks. Bue & Gold Fleet offers a fireworks cruise.
Where's your favorite place to celebrate the 4th of July? Tell us in the comments.
