You’ve been too busy enjoying the end of June gloom (fingers crossed, anyway!) to make detailed plans for the Fourth. No matter. We’ve cobbled together a handful of the best hassle-free things to do before, during, and after the moment that things go boom (which happens at 9 p.m., by the way.) See our exhaustive list of fireworks shows all around the county to make sure you have the best view possible.
Eppig Brewing’s Red, White and Brews Party
Craft beer? Spacious outdoor seating? Tri-tip sandwiches? Bayfront location for prime firework viewing? Check, check, check, and check. Eppig’s all-day celebration at its new Waterfront Biergarten at the base of Shelter Island will give you front row seating to the fireworks, plus delicious beverages, including the Independence Pale Ale being released on the Fourth. Noon to 10:30 p.m.
Cookout at Carnitas Snack Shack’s Embarcadero Location
Cookouts are even better when someone else hosts them—especially if that someone is Carnitas Snack Shack. Their Neighborhood Cookout at the Embarcadero location kicks off with burgers and hot dogs starting at 11 a.m., followed by a live DJ set from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and a live band from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
Coronado Island Parade
Walk, bike, or ride the ferry to the traffic-jammed island, where festivities—a run, a swim, art at Spreckels Park, and live music from the Coronado Community Band—supplement the parade. Starting at 10 a.m., the parade makes its way down Orange Avenue from 1st Street to Churchill Place. Find a place on the sand or the golf course for the island’s 9 p.m. fireworks show.
Bub’s @ the Beach
In addition to their tater tots, look for half-off wing specials all day, $4 beers and shots, and a newfangled patriotic cocktail called Merica Mule—a mix of honey whiskey, lime, bitters, and ginger beer—at this Pacific Beach establishment.
Union Kitchen & Tap Gaslamp
Want an early start? Wake up with bottomless mimosas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Want to whoop it up until the wee hours? Get your groove on with sounds from a live DJ from 10 p.m. until close. Want to maximize the entire day? See above.
5 Zero-Hassle Things to Do on the Fourth of July
The Big Bay Boom
