After Richmond starts the 4^th of July party one night early, our neighboring cities keep it going all day long.  Here are our top picks of local Independence Day celebrations:

El Cerrito: worldOne 4^th of July Festival

http://www.el-cerrito.org/july4
http://worldoneradio.org/

Cerrito Vista Park
7007 Moeser Ln, El Cerrito, CA 94530
10am – 7pm

For a day of July 4^th fun that celebrates the USA’s multicultural heritage, check out the nearby worldOne festival, now in its 17^th year.  Live reggae, jazz, Zydeco music, and more create a vibrant soundtrack for an afternoon of carnival games, food, and art.  This award-winning celebration is a mainstay of the El Cerrito community.

Berkeley:  Food, Fun & Fireworks at the Berkeley Marina
http://www.anotherbullwinkelshow.com/4th-of-july/

Berkeley Marina
201 University Ave, Berkeley 94710
12pm – 10pm.  Fireworks at 9:30pm.

To truly celebrate “on the water,” head to the Berkeley Marina for a festival that includes free dragon boating from noon to 5pm.  In addition, enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, crafts, and carnival rides.  Food trucks and concessions include Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, Dojo Dog, Sonoma Teriyaki, and more.  Be aware that parking is limited and is $15 in the Marina lots; festival is also accessible by bus or bike.  Free valet bike parking is provided by Mountain High Yoghurt.

Vallejo: 4^th of July Parade & Waterfront Fireworks
http://www.visitvallejo.com/event-calendar/index.php?event=353

Vallejo Waterfront
Georgia and Mare Island Way, Vallejo, CA 94590
Parade begins at Broadway and Tennessee streets.
Parade and celebration begin at 10am; fireworks start at 9:15pm. 

A parade of classic cars and floats kicks off the celebration in Vallejo.  At the waterfront, attendees can enjoy live music, and artisan beer garden, a dog parade, and “pirating zombies.”  Food vendors include Earl’s Bar-B-Q, tacos, and pupusas.

Antioch: Live Music, Car Show & Fireworks
http://celebrateantioch.org/

Contra Costa County Fairgrounds
1201 W 10th St, Antioch, CA 94509
Fairgrounds open at 3pm; fireworks at 9pm.
Parade starts at 3 pm at 2nd and D streets. 

Live music, kids games, and a car show mean that every member of the family will have a way to celebrate.  Local bands will provide music, including Shawn Raiford and Band, Lori Maxwell & Timez End, and The Best Intentions.  This event is free of charge, courtesy of the Celebrate Antioch Foundation.

Photo from dailycal.org.