4th of July 2012 Firework Displays

There’s only one legal way to enjoy Fourth of July fireworks in Contra Costa County, 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 local firework shows and other Fourth of July celebrations. All dates are Wednesday, July 4. 

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

Martinez - The annual and always-fu parade begins on Main Street at 10 a.m. The famous fireworks at Shoreline Park launch at 9:15 p.m. Follow the locals for the best fireworks-watching spots in town. 

Address: 1 Ferry Street, Martinez

Moraga - Celebrating the Fourth of July is an all day affair in Moraga. Highlights include the Dog Parade at 9 a.m. and the old-fashioned kids games at 11 a.m. Fireworks begin at Moraga Commons Park at 9:30 p.m. (ish)

Address: 1149 Moraga Road, Moraga

Pleasant Hill - This town knows how to throw a Fourth of July party. The parade starts making its way through downtown at 9:30 a.m. This year, the Grand Marshal (or Marshals) are the folks at Friends of Rodgers Ranch. 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

Parades and Festivals:

Concord - There are no fireworks in Concord, but the town is holding a parade. It starts at 10 a.m. at the corner of Salvio Street and Mira Vista Terrace. After the parade, the Concord Antique Faire is hosting a party with craft and antique booths in Todos Santos Plaza until 3 p.m. Willows Theatre will provide entertainment.

Clayton - The parade starts at 10 am on Main Street.

Where's your favorite place to celebrate the 4th of July? Tell us in the comments. 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Sign up to get Pleasant Hill headlines and breaking news delivered straight to your inbox.