Every year, visitors flock to Sonoma County for various experiences, from wine tasting to horseback riding to hot air balloon rides to vineyard tours. Of course, those of us local to the area know that some of the best times are just the simple, slow days enjoying a float down one of the rivers or a picnic on the coast. With so much to do and see in Sonoma County, it’s easy to see why so many stay. Especially during the holidays, Sonoma County knows how to celebrate things in a big way– and the Fourth of July is no different. 

While many cities in Northern California are still navigating unique challenges brought on by the years-long covid restrictions and continual drought restrictions and considerations, there are still plenty of festive events to enjoy, even if some of the big firework shows are still postponed until next year. Annadel Builders, Inc., your local fine home builder, knows our community well. That’s why we’ve compiled a quick list of some of the most exciting and fun events and experiences you can enjoy around the Fourth of July. Take a look at our local guide below! 

Where to Find Those Booming Fireworks

Understandably, many cities are opting to forgo fireworks and even all Independence Day celebrations over lingering coronavirus concerns, as well as extreme weather and drought conditions. That includes cities like Santa Rosa, Bodega Bay, and even Petaluma, which won’t be hosting any type of firework shows for 2022. 

If you are hoping to catch a festive firework show somewhere in Sonoma County, the good news is that Sonoma, Healdsburg, Sebastopol, Windsor, and even Cloverdale still plan to hold their firework celebrations for this year. You can also enjoy fireworks at the Green Music Center at Rohnert Park (starting as early as 4:30 pm with a Kid Zone and fireworks at 9:30 pm), so there are plenty of options for those who live in Sonoma County and surrounding areas! 

Though Petaluma opted to cancel their fireworks display this year, they’ve designed an alternative laser light display, which will project near the downtown area onto Sonoma Mountain. You can catch the laser show around 9:30 pm on the 4th if you are interested. 

Parades, Food & Plenty of Other Fun 

If fireworks aren’t the only way you want to celebrate the Fourth of July with family or friends, there is still plenty to do in Sonoma County and beyond. Penngrove is hosting its “The Biggest Little Parade in Northern California” in the morning for those who enjoy an early start to the festivities around 11:00 am on Sunday at downtown’s Main Street. There will be plenty to experience after the parade, from games for children and live music to vendors and barbecue. 

On Monday (the 4th of July), Cloverdale will be hosting a parade at 9:00 am, which is followed by carnival games, food, and music for even more fun before fireworks begin later in the day (around 9:00 pm) at Cloverdale High School. 

Live near Healdsburg? Head to the downtown Healdsburg Plaza for everything from live music to Duck Dash races and a Kid’s Parade. There is even a firework display later in the evening, which can be viewed at nearby Fitch Mountain Elementary School.

Kenwood also hosts a morning pancake breakfast early in the day, from 7:00 am to 11:00 am at the local Kenwood Community church, as well as an Empire Runners Club foot race, followed by a great spot for the early birds to view the 10:30 am parade which happens at the Kenwood Plaza Park. 

Sonoma locals know that the day starts as early as 10:00 am, with the parade cruising through the historic Sonoma Plaza (boasting more than 60 entries). There is always plenty to enjoy afterward in Sonoma, with a festival hosted by numerous nonprofit organizations offering delicious food, games, and much more. The evening is capped off around dusk with a 45-minute fireworks display above General Vallejo’s field for all ages to enjoy. 

Make Sonoma County Your Home This Year

Whether you live in the area or are dreaming of owning a beautiful luxury house in Sonoma, Healdsburg, or elsewhere in Northern California, Annadel Builders is proud to help prospective homeowners turn their vision into a reality. We know there is so much to do, see, and explore in our region, and we are passionate about building fine homes that not only meet but exceed our customers’ wishlists. If you want to make Sonoma County your new community, let Annadel Builders help you build the sustainable home you deserve. Reach out today to learn more about our fine home-building methods.