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.
Featured photo courtesy of Marin County Fair.

July 2-6
Picture this: a corndog in hand, fireworks in the sky and R&B girl group TLC onstage telling you not to go chasing waterfalls. The yearly county fair returns with music, barnyard animals, contests and a “Bug-tastic” theme.

Fourth of July Festivities
July 4
Pull out your best red, white and blue apparel as cities and towns across Marin County hold their annual parades, picnics and celebrations for Independence Day. Here are three options for celebrations 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. The nearby Buckaroo Breakfast is an all-you-can-eat pancake extravaganza to start the day.
- Corte Madera / Larkspur‘s parade winds through downtown Larkspur to the Corte Madera Town Center where it ends in a big finale that includes food stalls and kids activities.
- And in Sausalito, its a day full of activities with a morning parade, midday picnic and and fireworks that light up the sky once the sun goes down.

July 13
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.

July 18
Acclaimed, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter John Fullbright performs his original music in the House of Happy Walls Museum at Jack London State Historic Park. He will be playing Charmian London’s Steinway grand piano as well as his guitar.

July 26
San Rafael has added a new festival to its repertoire of summer bashes, featuring street painting and more art set against the backdrop of the Falkirk Cultural Center’s Victorian mansion.
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!