Best Things to Do in the East Bay This July

Foggy fireworks are a hallmark of the Fourth of July in the Bay Area. Never mind, one can always find sunshine somewhere in the Bay Area — and plenty of wonderful events to enjoy. We’ve done the deep research for you on the best things to do in the East Bay including museums, cultural events, food tours, athletic events, hikes and more. Speaking of food, we also have an extensive list of our best restaurants in the East Bay, and if you’re planning a weekend, the best places to stay.

The sunny and warm East Bay weather continues this month, with average temperatures from high 60s to high 70s.

Featured Photo: Courtesy of Alameda County Fair

First Free Sunday at Oakland Museum of California

Free first Sundays at OMCA, bringing together collections of art, history, and natural science under one roof to tell the extraordinary stories of California and its people. Hours: 11am to 5pm.

More info: museumca.org/plan-your-visit

Alameda County Fair

This year there are new events, new rides, and new food experiences. A full line-up of concerts, movies on the lawn, and a furor of carnival rides and games, plus drone shows and fireworks. Loop through the Ring of Fire or whirl around in the Cyclone before making your way to the Grandstand for classic horse racing or the enticingly-named Extreme Medieval Jousting.

More info: annual.alamedacountyfair.com

Pleasant Hill Fourth of July Celebration

Downtown Pleasant Hill is booming this Independence Day. The daring can start the morning at 7:45am with a 5k run (proceeds going to Pleasant Hill schools), while those who prefer to walk can wait till 9:30am to see the Downtown Parade. After a day filled with live music, local food, and fun for the kids, the fireworks spectacular begins at 8:45pm.

More info: phjuly4.com