Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

Live Music on the Corridor in Richmond July 25th

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By Richmond Art Center

Live Music on the Corridor is bringing the Richmond Arts Corridor to life with an afternoon of music, culture, and community.

Join us on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM–3:00 PM at the Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, for a free family-friendly celebration featuring acclaimed percussionist Carlitos Medrano and Sabor de mi Cub.

Presented by Richmond Renaissance, a project of Independent Arts & Media, this event is designed to celebrate the creative spirit of Richmond while connecting neighbors through the universal language of music. Enjoy live performances, meet new people, support local arts, and experience the vibrant energy that continues to shape the Richmond Arts Corridor.

Whether you’re a lifelong Richmond resident or visiting for the first time, come relax, dance, and experience an afternoon filled with rhythm, joy, and community.

Event Highlights:

  • Live music by Carlitos Medrano & Sabor de mi Cub
  • Community connection
  • Food and fun for all ages
  • Free admission with RSVP

Bring your family, invite a friend, and be part of Richmond’s growing arts movement—where creativity, culture, and community come together. We can’t wait to see you there!

Click here for Live Music on the Corridor Tickets, Saturday, July 25  •  1 PM – 3 PM | Eventbrite.

For more information visit Richmond Art Center.

Music on the Main Summer Concert Series in Richmond continues July 9th

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Summer Concert Series – the second concert is tomorrow, Thursday July 9th, 5pm-7:30pm featuring Red Kicks Krewe, a local Richmond Band. They cover lots of funk, R&B, top 40’s and lots of beats that will keep you moving all night long!

Bring your friends & family for an energetic evening of dancing, live music, local cuisine, and beverages to enjoy the Music on the Main Summer Concert Series in the heart of Downtown Richmond. Feel free to bring your lawn chair and set up for a great show.

We’ll see you tomorrow!

Thursday July 9th 

5pm-7:30pm

The LOT, 1401 Macdonald Ave corner of Marina Way, Richmond

 

Not Loud Concerts return to the East Bay with Summer Sessions

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With Blues Night, Country Boogie Night & Vintage Rock Night

“Not too loud, not too long and not too expensive.”

By Rebecca Roudman

On July 26, Aug. 23 and Sept. 20 at Gilman Brewing in Berkeley, the folks from Not Loud Concerts are presenting Summer Sessions. These music festivals are part of the Not Loud Concert Summer Series – a set of concerts designed to be Not too long, Not too expensive, and of course, Not too loud.

Designed with the audience’s comfort in mind, these short festivals will be held outdoors at Gilman Brewing. There, 2 bands will be on stage at the same time, trading songs and dueling it out. Each concert will have a different theme.

July 26 is Blues Night featuring Delta Wires, an exciting harmonica and horns blues powerhouse and Dirty Cello, a world-traveling, high-energy blues band.

Aug 23 is Country Boogie Night featuring the Alex Lucero Band, a boot-stompin’ Americana band and Dirty Cello, a high-energy band known for their crazy takes on classic country.

Sept. 20 is Vintage Rock Night featuring The Rockbusters, a roaring nostalgia-filled cover band playing all of your favorite songs from the 80’s. They’ll be joined by Dirty Cello, who are known for their crazy and electrifying performances of everything from the Stones to CCR.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The audience is welcome to bring chairs, and chairs will also be provided. There will be room to dance and room to sit. No porta-potties, but plenty of clean, indoor bathrooms.

Not Loud Concerts focus on creating an experience that is casual and fun for both the musicians and the audience. The concerts are never too long, never too expensive and of course never too loud.

Not Loud Concerts presents… Summer Sessions at Gilman Brewing

July 26 – Blues Night

Aug 23 – Country Boogie Night

Sept 20 – Vintage Rock Night

7 – 9 pm

Tickets: NotLoudConcerts.com

Here are a couple short videos about the festivals: https://youtu.be/rsu32TPUOjw?si=ye_r5_2ig6lofFLp and https://youtube.com/shorts/GwNNu6WiPwc?si=K_EPLIyDrRDgDhxr

Paid advertisement.

Rodeo to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day with 4th of July Family 5K Fun Run, more

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Cash awards for winners!

Enjoy live music, dance performances, food and vendor booths

By Hercules-Rodeo-Crockett Rotary Club

It all started in 2021. The Hercules-Rodeo-Crockett Rotary (HRC) Club is reforming. Many members have moved on or retired, and there were less than 10 of us. But with commitment to community service and enthusiasm of our high school students, the first 4th of July Family 5k Fun Run happened. Six years later, we continue the tradition. Please join the fun that includes live music, dance performances, and local food and vendor booths.

Celebrate the 250th year anniversary of our republic at The Waterfront, 13 Pacific Avenue near the Four Fools Winery in Rodeo!

Register at runsignup.com.

Our 4th of July tradition! The Rodeo Hercules Dynamite 4th of July 5K Run/Walk along the San Francisco Bay Trail!

Race Details

Once again, our race is REVERSED this year! It will start July 4th at 9am. We will run/jog/walk the Northern portion of the San Francisco Bay Trail from Parker Avenue in Rodeo to The Exchange in Hercules and back.

The event will be a chip timed 5K run/walk limited to 250 entrants. Early bird registration is $50 up to 8:30 AM July 4th. Kids 5 and under are FREE!

Register after June 20th and sized race T-shirts will be passed out during Race Packet pickup on a first-come basis.

Race Packet (bib/shirt) pick-up at event from 7:30am-8:30am

Races start 9:00-11:00am

Cash awards around 11:30am – $100, $75 and $50 for top three finishers, male/female.

Rodeo Hercules 2026 4th of July 5K Race route. Source: Hercules/Rodeo/Crockett Rotary Club

For more information visit Hercules/Rodeo/Crockett Rotary Club.

Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day at “Freedom Over Crockett” with fireworks and more

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Honoring America’s Independence • California Heritage • Community Pride

Includes historical walk, live big band music, car show, food and family friendly fun

By Crockett Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society & Crockett Museum

Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in the historic waterfront town of Crockett — a full day of live music, local history, patriotic spirit, community gathering, food, family fun, and hometown pride along the beautiful Carquinez Strait.

This exciting community celebration combines history, entertainment, and small-town Americana into one incredible event designed for residents, visitors, families, and history lovers of all ages.

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A HISTORIC YEAR OF CELEBRATION

This year’s celebration proudly commemorates the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 250th Anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition, one of the most significant historic journeys in California history.

On July 4, 1776 — the exact same day the Declaration of Independence was being signed in Philadelphia — the Anza Expedition reached its final destination in what would later become San Francisco.

Along their historic journey through California, the expedition passed directly through Crockett, forever connecting our town to one of the most important migrations and exploration routes in the state’s history.

This Fourth of July, the community will honor that incredible legacy by inviting guests to literally walk in the footsteps of history during a guided historical walk experience through Crockett.

The celebration also honors another important milestone in Crockett history — the legacy of the iconic C&H Sugar refinery.

Officially beginning operations in 1906, the refinery now celebrates nearly 120 years of industrial and community history in Crockett.

Today, the refinery continues producing approximately 14% of the nation’s cane sugar, making it one of the most historically important and recognizable landmarks in California industry.

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EVENT INFORMATION

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Event Location: Rithet Park – intersection of Rolph & Loring Avenues, Crockett

FREE ADMISSION

ALL AGES WELCOME

FAMILY-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY EVENT

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POWERFUL HISTORICAL WALK ON THE ANZA EXPEDITION TRAIL

Walk in the Footsteps of History

Step back in time and experience a living piece of California history right here in Crockett.

Led by Madeline of Hatch Services, this immersive guided historical walk will bring the past to life through engaging storytelling, local historical insight, and a meaningful community experience along the trail route connected to the historic Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition.

Historical Walk Activities Begin at 11:00 AM

Guests will gather at Scouts Hall for refreshments and snacks before beginning the historic walking experience.

Participants will walk to and from the bridge while hearing fascinating stories and historical information about:
• The Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition

  • The settlement and exploration of early California
  • Crockett’s industrial and waterfront heritage
  • The development of the Carquinez Strait region
  • The history and legacy of the C&H Sugar refinery
  • Historic migration routes and local landmarks

The importance of Crockett in California history

This powerful historical experience is designed to educate, inspire, and connect the community through storytelling, patriotism, and cultural heritage.

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LIVE BIG BAND MUSIC

Following the historical walk, guests will return to Rithet Park for an exciting afternoon of live music and celebration featuring:

  • Steve Snyder’s Big Band
  • LIVE from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Enjoy a vibrant Independence Day soundtrack featuring:
  • Classic Big Band Favorites
  • Patriotic American Standards
  • Timeless Jazz Classics
  • Swing & Dance Favorites
  • Community Celebration Music

Bring your lawn chairs, relax with family and friends, and enjoy an authentic hometown Fourth of July atmosphere filled with live entertainment and community spirit.

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FOOD • CARS • FAMILY FUN • COMMUNITY

The celebration will feature an exciting lineup of activities and attractions throughout the day including:

  • Delicious Food Trucks & Local Favorites
  • Community Car Show Featuring Classic & Specialty Vehicles
  • Pie Eating Contest – $150 GRAND PRIZE for the Pie Eating Contest Winner-sign up @ crockettchamber@aol.com
  • Tons of Family-Friendly Activities & Festivities, Bocce court
  • Beautiful Waterfront & Carquinez Strait Views
  • Great Photo Opportunities Throughout the Event
  • Patriotic Community Gathering Areas

Visitors are encouraged to spend the entire day enjoying the festivities, music, food, shopping, and community celebration.

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SHOP AROUND TOWN

Support local businesses during the celebration!

Shops and businesses throughout Crockett will be OPEN and offering SPECIALS during the event.

Guests are encouraged to explore Crockett’s charming downtown businesses, restaurants, local shops, and historic areas while enjoying the Fourth of July festivities.

This celebration is designed not only to honor history and community spirit, but also to help support local businesses and encourage visitors to experience everything Crockett has to offer.

Stop by the Historical Society & Crockett Museum to join in on a time capsule, bring an item and to view the C&H exhibit.

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IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION

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NO ALCOHOL WILL BE SERVED AT THIS EVENT

Guests are encouraged to BRING THEIR OWN COOLERS with beverages and refreshments.

Please BRING YOUR OWN LAWN CHAIRS and picnic seating for comfort during the live music performances and festivities.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for those participating in the historical walk experience.

Sunscreen, hats, and bottled water are also encouraged for daytime activities.

This is a FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY, ALL-AGES EVENT welcoming residents and visitors from throughout Contra Costa County, the East Bay and beyond.

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A TRUE HOMETOWN AMERICA CELEBRATION

“Freedom Over Crockett” continues the proud tradition of bringing the community together through music, history, patriotism, local culture, and hometown pride.

Historically supported by the Crockett Chamber of Commerce and the Historical Society and Crockett Museum, this annual celebration reflects the heart and spirit of Crockett while honoring:

  • America’s enduring spirit of freedom
  • The 250th Anniversary of the Juan Bautista de Anza Expedition
  • California’s rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Crockett’s industrial and waterfront legacy
  • Community traditions, live music, and family celebration
  • Community unity, local pride, and historical preservation

Whether you are a long-time resident, a returning visitor or experiencing Crockett for the very first time, this unforgettable Fourth of July celebration promises a full day of history, entertainment, family fun, music, food, and patriotic spirit in one of the East Bay’s most unique and historic waterfront communities.

Celebrate Freedom • Celebrate History • Celebrate Crockett

We would like to also thank our Sponsors Phillips 66 and C&H Sugar, celebrating 120 years making sugar in Crockett.

Walnut Creek to celebrate America’s 250th, California’s 175th with patriotic concert July 4th

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By City of Walnut Creek

Spend Independence Day with the Walnut Creek Concert Band!

Join the Walnut Creek Concert Band at Civic Park on Saturday, July 4, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. for a free evening of patriotic music as we celebrate Independence Day.

This year’s concert is also a wonderful way to commemorate two historic milestones: the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 175th anniversary of California.

Lawn chairs and blankets are recommended. Bring your family, pack a picnic and enjoy this beloved community tradition before the evening’s festivities.

San Pablo to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day with drone show July 4th

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Plus, live entertainment, carnival games, food trucks and more

By City of San Pablo

San Pablo — we’re celebrating the 4th of July in style!

The City of San Pablo is excited to invite you to our annual Fourth of July Celebration. A full evening of live entertainment, carnival games, food trucks, a drone show and more!

Join us starting at 5:30PM and ending our night with a drone show set to launch at 9:30PM at the San Pablo Community Center, 2450 Road 20.

  • Doors open 5:30 PM
  • Drone show after dark

Come early, stay late, celebrate big. Don’t miss it!

Pleasant Hill to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day, 50th Anniversary of July 4th Commission

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With fun run, parade, live music and fireworks show

By & Pleasant Hill Police Department

This coming weekend, Pleasant Hill will be celebrating the Fourth of July with our annual fun run, parade and fireworks display.

We invite you to participate in our Firecracker 5K Race or Kids 100-yard dash from 7:45-9:00am. Prizes for the top finishers. National Anthem sung by Jennifer Bennett. First up is the 100-Yard Dash followed by the 5K Race. A portion of your registration goes directly to Pleasant Hill sc…

Come to Downtown Pleasant Hill and see the World-Famous Pleasant Hill Parade presented by the Pleasant Hill Coin & Jewelry Exchange. 9:30am-10:30am

After the parade ends, walk over to Pleasant Hill Park on Gregory Lane and join us for the Party in the Park with live music by Inner State 80’s, food by Back 40 Texas BBQ and Kettle Corn, and fun games for the kids! 10:30am-1:30pm

Then enjoy the best fireworks show in the East Bay with a viewing party at College Park High School. There will be music, food and dessert trucks on site. Access is $4 per person (suggested donation). 6:30pm – 10pm

The Pleasant Hill 4th of July Commission works hard to put together the largest single-day event in the city. The commission is not part of the City of Pleasant Hill and is an all-volunteer non-profit organization that was formed in 1976 to celebrate United States Bicentennial. This year we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For more information visit Pleasant Hill 4th of July or email pleasanthilljuly4@gmail.com.

Police Announce Road Closures

We know how much our community looks forward to these celebrations, and over the next several days, the Pleasant Hill Police Department will be sharing information about these community events. Today, let’s talk about the Fireworks display, which takes begins at 9:15pm on the night of Saturday, July 4th, 2026, in the area of College Park High School.

  • Expect delays along Taylor Blvd between Contra Costa Blvd. and Morello Avenue.
  • Road closures will occur along Norse Drive, Viking Drive and Ruth Drive.
  • Heavy traffic around Diablo Valley College and College Park High School.
  • NO PARKING OR STOPPING ON TAYLOR BOULEVARD

Road closures/detours can be expected at least 30 minutes prior to and 30 minutes after the display. The fireworks display will last approximately 30 minutes. Spectators and vehicles will be withheld from entering the fallout zone immediately following the show until the site has been cleared by the Fire Inspector. We anticipate traffic returning to normal by 11:00pm.

For those planning to come into the area and view the fireworks, we suggest that you strive to come early to secure a parking spot in the surrounding community parking areas. Please be patient (and courteous) while driving, given the road closures, detours and increased vehicle traffic. We want everyone to get a good spot, have a good time, and leave in good spirits.

Check back on our social media platforms for more information, including details about the parade route, road closures and other event details that will help you stay informed about what’s to come this Saturday. Have a great week Pleasant Hill!

Concord to celebrate America’s 250th and California’s 175th birthdays July 4th

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Fun Runs, Pancake Breakfast, Parade, Festival, Food, Live Music & Fireworks

By Concord July 4th

Get ready to celebrate America’s 250th and California’s 175th birthdays with friends and family as Concord comes together for a full day of fun, traditions, live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks show! Make plans now to celebrate on Saturday, July 4, 2026.

TODOS SANTOS PLAZA

8:00 AM – Kids Fun Run

8:00 AM – Rotary Pancake Breakfast

8:15 AM – 5K Run and Walk

10:00 AM – Parade through Downtown Concord

  1. DIABLO HIGH SCHOOL

4:00 PM – Festival, Food, Vendors & Family Fun

5:30 PM Live Music with Brooks Lundy

7:30 PM Live Music with 3day Weekend

9:00 PM Fireworks to culminate the party!

A special thank you to our Title Sponsor, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, and all of the sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who help make this beloved tradition possible year after year.

Learn more at www.ConcordJuly4th.com.

City of El Cerrito & worldOne to hold 2026 4th of July Festival

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From 11am-5pm at Cerrito Vista Park

By City of El Cerrito Recreation Department

The annual City of El Cerrito & worldOne 4th of July Festival provides the chance to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day and California’s 175th Anniversary of Statehood amongst high-flying banners, world-class music, friends, community groups, a classic car showcase and more. Join us on Saturday, 7/4 to celebrate this renowned El Cerrito tradition!

The Festival brings 10,000 community members together on Independence Day for a day of fun, celebration and civic pride. The event is free to the public, with pay-as-you-go options for attractions such as food and beverage booths, rides, bounce houses, vendor booths and more!

Getting Here

Parking:

  • Limited ADA parking is available at the El Cerrito Community Center Parking Lot (7007 Moeser Lane)
  • Street Parking around the Festival Grounds (please note streets immediately surrounding Cerrito Vista Park will be closed)
  • Carpools strongly encouraged for those driving to the festival!

Bike Parking:

  • FREE Bike Valet for those biking to the Festival hosted by the ECHS Mountain Bike Team

BART:

  • 0.9 Mile Walk from the El Cerrito Plaza BART Station via the Ohlone Greenway
  • 1.5 Mile Walk from Del Norte BART Station via the Ohlone Greenway

AC Transit:

  • Line 72M runs South on San Pablo Avenue from El Cerrito Del Norte Station. Exit San Pablo Ave & Moeser Lane
  • Line 72 runs North on San Pablo Avenue from El Cerrito Plaza Station. Exit San Pablo Av & Moeser Lane

See a large version of the Festival Map.

Thank you to our Sponsors.

For more information visit  2026 City of El Cerrito & WorldOne 4th of July Festival Official Website or email us at recreation@elcerrito.gov.