Contra Costa Herald

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

San Ramon to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day with 40th annual run, concert July 4th

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By City of San Ramon

Kick off America’s 250th with patriotic music on the 4th of July from Olympia Fields Brass followed by a high-energy concert featuring The Cheeseballs, an internationally traveling dance band bringing you the best of funk and soul with hits from the ’80s, ’90s and today. Grab your friends, family, and picnic blanket for a spectacular evening of dancing, singing, and summer fun under the stars. Beer, wine, and food truck purchases available.

Central Park Amphitheater – 7000 Bollinger Canyon Road

  • Olympia Fields Brass | 5:00 p.m.
  • The Cheeseballs | 6:00 p.m.
  • Food trucks available
  • Beer & wine available for purchase
  • FREE Admission

Source: City of San Ramon

Bring your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, family and friends for a night of patriotic music, dancing and summer fun under the stars. There will be no fireworks display.

Additional parking available at Iron Horse Middle School. Please see map for ADA parking and Loading and Unloading Area.

For more information visit sanramon.ca.gov/events.

40th Annual Run San Ramon

The 2026 Run San Ramon presented by the City of San Ramon is celebrating its 40th year! Sign up today to run this Independence Day classic Get a healthy start to your 4th of July by enjoying the paved, looped 5K/10K course through San Ramon or the out-and-back Fastest Mile. All participants will receive a collectible, commemorative short-sleeve shirt, bib and participation medal with the 2026 logo.

The Run San Ramon is a chip timed race.

Start & Finish: San Ramon Community Center – 12501 Alcosta Blvd.

7:00am – Check-in & Race Day Registration Opens

8:00am – Fastest Mile Start

8:30am – 5K/10K Start

Register at SanRamon.ca.gov/FitnessRaces.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day with Fireworks Showcase at Richmond’s Annual 3rd of July

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By City of Richmond

City of Richmond presents the Annual 3rd of July Fireworks Showcase for 2026.

Join us on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm at Marina Bay Park for our annual community celebration featuring music, food, and activities for all ages. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks show beginning at 9:15 pm.

Bring your family, friends, and festive spirit, as we come together for one of Richmond’s favorite summer traditions.

For more information, call (510) 620-6512.

Lafayette to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day Thursday, July 2nd

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By Lafayette Library and Learning Center

On Thursday, July 2, join us at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center for a fun community celebration to mark the 250th Anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence! Proudly presented by the City of Lafayette, in partnership with the Lafayette Historical Society, the Acalanes Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Chapter, and All Ages Recreation Downtown (AARD), with special thanks to Front Porch Music. Everyone is welcome!

From 4pm to 6pm outside the library

  • Carnival games
  • Craft activities – hosted by AARD
  • Sign a giant copy of the Declaration of Independence and take a selfie with a founding father – hosted by the Acalanes DAR Chapter
  • Live music in the amphitheater by The Au Contraires as well as Janel and the Magdalena Sage Band
  • Learn about the Marquis de Lafayette
  • Complete the Passport Activities to receive a free USA flag!
  • Hot dogs and nachos available for purchase

Starting at 6pm in the Don Tatzin Community Hall

  • National Anthem performed by Janel Wagne
  • Comments by Mayor Carl Anduri
  • Mary McCosker will share the story of how our town got its name
  • Screening of Lafayette: The Lost Hero, a one-hour documentary on the Marquis’s extraordinary life and contributions to American independence.

The Lafayette Library and Learning Center and Don Tatzin Community Hall are located at 3491 Mount Diablo Blvd., in downtown Lafayette.

Details at www.lovelafayette.org/250th.

City of Martinez to host 2026 Independence Day Celebration with day-long festivities July 4th

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Celebrate America’s 250th and City’s 150th anniversaries

By Eve Kearney, Martinez City Manager’s Office

Martinez, CA – The City of Martinez is pleased to announce its 2026 Independence Day Celebration, featuring a full day of events for residents, families, and visitors. This year’s festivities honor two important milestones: the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 150th anniversary of the City of Martinez. The community is invited to celebrate with a series of events taking place on Saturday, July 4, 2026.

Parade – 10:00am

Hosted by Downtown Martinez & Co., the annual Independence Day Parade will take place on historic downtown Main Street and feature local organizations, civic groups, marching units, classic vehicles, and community representatives.

Martinez Sturgeons Baseball Game – 12:30pm

Join us for the great American pastime, with a special Independence Day home game featuring the Martinez Sturgeons, playing at Joe DiMaggio Field in Waterfront Park. Concessions will be available.

Fun Fest at Waterfront Park – 5:00 pm

The afternoon continues at Waterfront Park with a family-friendly Fun Fest featuring activities, food trucks, and entertainment. Highlights include Bubble Fun from 5:00–6:0pm, a professional kite show from 6:00–7:00pm, and music from DJ Rhythm Masters beginning at 6:30pm. This event is designed to offer residents of all ages a safe, welcoming space to enjoy the holiday together.

Fireworks Finale – 9:30 pm

The City of Martinez will conclude the day with its annual fireworks display over the Martinez Waterfront. This professionally produced show will begin at 9:30pm and promises to be an outstanding display of dazzling colors and community spirit!

The City of Martinez looks forward to celebrating Independence Day with the community and thanks its partners and public safety personnel for their efforts in coordinating this year’s events. The City would also like to thank the East Bay Regional Park District for their continued support and partnership with the City’s annual Fireworks Show.

Please note that general vehicle access to the Marina will be closed off starting at 6:00am and parking will be by permit only as City staff and contractors prepare for the event. Free parking for the day’s events is available in the surrounding Downtown area.

As a reminder, the use of personal fireworks is prohibited in both the City of Martinez and throughout Contra Costa County, to protect our community from the significant risks associated with fireworks, including fires, injuries, and disruptive noise impacts. We appreciate our community’s continued cooperation in helping to maintain a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all residents, visitors, and pets.

We look forward to marking history together, celebrating 250 years of America and 150 years of Martinez, on an unforgettable day of community pride!

Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary at the Pittsburg Marina July 4th

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By City of Pittsburg

Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration as the City of Pittsburg proudly commemorates America’s 250th Anniversary with a spectacular waterfront fireworks show and community celebration!

Join us on Saturday, July 4, at the beautiful Pittsburg Marina for an evening filled with family friendly fun, great food, and patriotic excitement. Enjoy a variety of delicious food trucks along the marina, browse local vendors, and stop by the Waterfront Fireworks Party hosted by Dale Vino. Be sure to visit the Pittsburg Yacht Club 4th of July Membership Drive Party.

Then, as the sun sets, look to the sky for our dazzling fireworks spectacular beginning at 9:00 p.m. a breathtaking display you won’t want to miss!

Pittsburg Marina – 51 Marina Blvd., Pittsburg

Fireworks Show Begins at 9:00 p.m.

Sources: City of Pittsburg (left) and Gerald Glasper, Project 4 Band (right)

Space is limited, so we encourage attendees to arrive early and enjoy all the festivities.

Bring your family, friends, and patriotic spirit as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday together on Pittsburg’s beautiful waterfront. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Brentwood to celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day July 4th

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America 250: Agricultural Roots & the American Dream

By City of Brentwood

This Fourth of July, celebrate more than America’s birthday. Celebrate the story of Brentwood.

Join us for America 250: Agricultural Roots & the American Dream, a one-of-a-kind community celebration that explores how our local history connects to the nation’s 250-year journey.

The day begins with the Children’s Parade and Brentwood Classic Parade at 9:30 AM, traveling from First & Birch through Historic Downtown to the Brentwood Community Center. Then, from 11:30 AM-3:00 PM, the celebration comes to life throughout City Park, the Community Center, Historic Downtown, and the Veterans Memorial Hall.

Along the way, you’ll experience Brentwood’s past, present, and future through interactive exhibits, local organizations, entertainment, and family activities.

Discover Brentwood’s agricultural heritage with Harvest Time’s 50th Anniversary activation, visit Spinola Farm to purchase exclusive U-Pick Capital shirts, and learn about the people and places that shaped our community with the East Contra Costa Historical Society and the John Marsh Historic Trust.

Enjoy live music by The Ragdolls, a lineup of local favorites from The Foodie Crew, family activities including a mini train ride, arts and crafts, face painting, balloon art, and lawn games, plus the Veterans Memorial Hall Car Show, free hot dogs, live music, and a Historical Flag Scavenger Hunt.

While you’re here, stroll through Historic Downtown and vote for your favorite storefront in the Downtown Brentwood Coalition’s America 250 Business Decorating Contest.

Every stop tells a different chapter of Brentwood’s story.

See the City’s Facebook page for everything happening on July 4, then make plans to celebrate America’s 250th birthday right here in Brentwood.

Brentwood to host Third Annual Juneteenth Celebration June 19th

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By E. Harith Aleem, Parks and Recreation Director, City of Brentwood

BRENTWOOD, CA – The City of Brentwood invites residents and visitors to come together for its third annual Juneteenth Celebration, which will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Brentwood City Park. The event will commemorate Juneteenth and honor the rich history, culture and contributions of the African American community with an evening of live entertainment, food, shopping, community resources, family activities and celebration.

Juneteenth marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a time to reflect, honor, and celebrate an important moment in American history. Brentwood’s celebration will bring residents, families, friends and neighbors together for an evening of unity, connection, and community pride.

Headlining this year’s celebration is Grammy-nominated gospel singer Kim Burrell. The evening will also feature performances by local artists Stepz Dance Fitness, Split Second Response, Virtuous Voices Music Academy, Monique McCoy, Steven Green and Kritta.

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of eats provided by Foodie Crew food trucks, including Dad’s BBQ, Brooklyn’s Lunchbox, Fry Boys, Mini Donut Shack, Yummy Boba, Craving Cajun, Shawndee’s Comfort Kitchen, Mozzeria, Cousins Maine Lobster, Philly Cheesesteak, Jollof Kitchen and Rosie’s Mexican Food. Additional dessert vendors will include Gina’s Sweets & Treats, Carter’s Cannolis and Pound Bizness.

The celebration will also feature craft and merchandise vendors, including Ken’s Pretty Little Things, Holley’s Honey, BOWZ by Novi, Kreative Minds Inspire, AfriCali Designs, Niki Denise, Perch & Bloom, LEIMYA’s CO-OP, LaTisa’s Kingdom Living, LaSarah’s Prayer Closet, Lisa’s Sparkle Box, Kiki’s Kreations, Hey Carter!, Christye Creations, Kay’s Creations, The Adventures of Blu Pigtails and Bangi.

Community and educational booths will be available throughout the event, featuring organizations and partners such as Split Second Response, Contra Costa Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Virtuous Voices Music Academy, Delta Bay Impact, Stepz Dance Fitness, Aspiranet, Never Gonna Give It Up, LLC, STEM and Sprout, Chosen Sports Leagues, Inc., Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Department Navigators, First Page New Chapter, Caste Action Alliance, Affiliated Martial Arts Promoters Association, GirlTREK and Diablo Black Men’s Group.

This year’s celebration will also include kids’ activities and the Downtown Brentwood Freedom Walk, an interactive stamp card experience where participants can visit participating downtown businesses, learn facts about African American history, and enjoy local shops and restaurants along the way.

Separately, earlier that day, the American Red Cross will host a blood drive from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Brentwood Community Center. Blood drive participation is by appointment.

All are welcome to join the City of Brentwood for an evening of celebration, education, and connection.

For more information visit Juneteenth | Brentwood, CA.

17th Annual Martinez Beaver Festival June 13

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Free Wildlife Fest, Jazz, Parades

By Heidi Perryman

The Martinez Beaver Festival is turning 17!

Where else can you see a giant beaver skull, a 1500-gallon aquarium on wheels, an 18- piece  jazz band, a children’s parade, live displays of raptors, bees, and bats, and an award winning chalk artist all while learning the story firsthand of the rodent that made one forgotten city famous? Only one place and that’s the Martinez beaver Festival. Returning for its 17th time the festival is free, family fun where you can learn all about beavers, citizen science, urban wildlife, community involvement, and how to combat drought, fires and global warming one beaver at a time.

There are many more beaver festivals now around the country and many more books and films to explain why beavers matter, but this is the one that inspired them all. Come see for yourself why beavers are Worth A Dam.

Where: Susana Park – Estudillo and Susana Streets in Martinez

When: June 13, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Hosted by: Worth A Dam

Learn about the history of the beavers in Martinez, more information and see photos of the beavers by visiting www.martinezbeavers.org.

37th Annual Art & Wind Festival blowing back into San Ramon May 24-25

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By City of San Ramon

Let’s go fly a kite!  at the 37th Annual San Ramon Art & Wind Festival, the best festival in the East Bay. The Art & Wind Festival is scheduled for Sunday and Monday, May 24-25, 2026, in San Ramon’s Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd. from 11am to 6pm both days.

This annual event features fine arts, crafts and specialty food vendors, three entertainment stages headlining international music, party bands and variety entertainers, children’s shows, two festival food courts, family amusement zones, professional choreographed kite flying demonstrations, helicopter landing, free kite making workshop, puppet shows and much more.

The Art and Wind Festival is a family, bike and pet-friendly FREE outdoor event!

For individuals with additional sensory needs, check out the Sensory Zone at City Hall for a quiet break from the festival without having to leave.

For more information visit ArtandWind.com.

Rodeo returns to the Contra Costa Fair with Bulls & Broncs Friday, May 15

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By Allen D. Payton

After more than 20 years, the rodeo returns to the Contra Costa County Fair, this year, with Bulls and Broncs beginning 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.

The Silver Bridge Rodeo Company brings the spirit of the West to life with world-class bull riding and broncs events that showcase the grit, skill, and courage of rodeo’s toughest athletes. From thunderous eight-second rides to airborne broncs and charging bulls!

General Admission is $19.00. Does not include Fair admission.

Rodeo Event Tickets sold separately online through Saffire Ticket by clicking, HERE.

For more information about the 2026 Contra Costa County Fair visit www.contracostafair.com.