Best Things to Do in the North Bay This July

Foggy fireworks are a hallmark of the Fourth of July in the Bay Area, but rest assured there’s always sunshine somewhere in the Bay. If you’re wondering what to do in the North Bay this July, we’ve got you covered with the best parades, festivals, events, local food and more. From Sausalito to Sonoma, here’s a taste of what’s happening in the North Bay. 

Speaking of taste, we also have an extensive list of our best restaurants in the North Bay, and if you’re planning a weekend, the best places to stay

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

Featured photo courtesy of Marin County Fair. 

A lively fairground in North Bay features a colorful swing ride lifting passengers into the air. Below, vibrant game booths and taller structures like a Ferris wheel are visible against a clear blue sky, with people enjoying various attractions—truly one of the best things to do in July.
Photo courtesy of Marin County Fair.

Dates TBD

Art exhibits, fireworks, exciting rides and good ol’ summer fun. Along with the usual funnel cakes and pig races, this year’s fair also features a butterfly enclosure and concerts by Ziggy Marley, Los Lonely Boys and more great acts.

A festive Independence Day parade features a decorated float adorned with American flags and a red, white, and blue theme. Participants and spectators line the street, celebrating and waving flags. A sign on the float reads "Mt. Tamalpais Graveyard 2004." It's one of the best things to do in the North Bay this July!
Photo courtesy of Robert Tong.

Fourth of July Parades

July 4

Towns across Marin County hold annual parades, picnics and celebrations for Independence Day. Here are three options for red, white and blue parties in Northern, Central and Southern Marin:

  • In Novato, check out one of the Bay Area’s biggest July 4 parades, featuring military vehicles, marching bands and adorable kids groups. 
  • Corte Madera / Larkspur wind their parade through downtown Larkspur with a big finale at the Corte Madera Town Center shopping quarter.
  • And in Sausalito, a parade takes place in the morning, and fireworks light up the sky once the sun goes down. 
A band named "Blue Monday Band" performs on an outdoor stage, making it one of the best things to do in North Bay this July. The group includes a saxophonist, guitarist/singer, drummer, vocalist with a hat, and a bassist. A sign with the band's name and another with "TIPS" are displayed against greenery and a cloudy sky.
Photo courtesy of Bruce Forrester.

Fridays throug September

Jazz, blues and R&B are coming to the waterfront this July. Every Friday evening, the City of Sausalito is hosting outdoor concerts right on the lawn. Purchase dinner from one of the community group-sponsored vendors, or bring your own and have a picnic while you enjoy the music. Shows start at 6:30pm. 

People browse and shop at an outdoor market in North Bay, with booths and tents displaying various items, including potted plants and small succulents. Shoppers, both young and old, enjoy the sunny July day amidst a backdrop of trees and a historical building with a dome. One of the best things to do!
Photo courtesy of Petaluma Art & Garden Festival.

Dates TBD

One of Petaluma’s most beloved events returns this year with an array of local artisans and gardeners. Walk through the stalls — vendors are hand-picked for their quality and creativity — while listening to live music, wine glass in hand. There will also be a children’s corner with hands-on arts and crafts, face painting and a bouncy house. 11am to 5pm Free admission.

A band performs on an outdoor stage before a large crowd. The backdrop reads "Keeping music in the schools!" and features an illustration of a schoolhouse. Band members play guitars, drums, and sing. Enjoying one of the best things to do in North Bay in July, the audience wears hats and enjoys the music in a sunny setting.

Dates TBD

Petaluma is keeping the party going all July with exciting events, including this musical festival that’s now in its 17th year. Three music stages, 14 performing bands, 4,000 attendees and dozens of vendors combine for this festival. And, it’s all for a good cause. Since 2008, the event has raised over $450,000 to support music programs within Petaluma public schools. The 2024 lineup includes a number of amazing groups playing funk, bluegrass, psychedelic soul — you name it.

Event Venues

Looking to see what’s happening right now in the North Bay? Our comprehensive list of venues below will help you find what you need to know what’s going on.

Looking for more things to do in the area?

Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!

More Activities in Northern California

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