Community

July 4th Celebration Guide

Some of the best Independence Day things to do in Riverside.

Ken Crawford Jul 4, 2025

July 4th Celebration Guide — A scene from last year's Concert for Heroes, held each July 3 at Riverside National Cemetery—one of the city’s cherished Independence Day traditions. (Brenda Flowers)

Main Event: 4th of July Spectacular

Friday, July 4, at 9 p.m. – FREE

The City of Riverside presents fireworks at two locations:

La Sierra Park

5215 La Sierra Ave.
• Park is closed all day for safety
• Alternative viewing: Doty Trust Park and Myra Linn Park

Mt. Rubidoux

Ryan Bonaminio Park, 5000 Tequesquite Ave.
• Offers a more scenic/elevated viewing experience
• Iconic Riverside location with panoramic views

Both locations feature entertainment, food vendors and family activities before the fireworks.

Be sure to be neighborly: watch from a safe spot and leave sidewalks and driveways clear.

Visit riversideca.gov for more details.

Daytime Activities

Courthouse Murals and Heroes Walking Tour | 1-2 p.m.
Explore Riverside’s historic murals and learn about local heroes.

Visit raincrossgazette.com/calendar for more details.

Calvary Presbyterian Church Festival | 7 -10 p.m.
Traditional community July 4 festival with activities and refreshments.

Gates for the festival open at 7:00 pm and everything is FREE but the food trucks. Food trucks will have shredded beef tacos, burritos, tostadas, and tortas.

Visit calvarypresch.org for more details

Farm House Sandlot Screening | 6:30 p.m.
Special outdoor movie screening.

Grab concessions at Cold One and enjoy free popcorn with any purchase!

Check out their Instagram for more details.

Evening Bar Scene

Riverside Red, White & Brew Bar Crawl | 5-11 p.m.
Patriotic-themed bar crawl through Downtown.

Check out raincrossgazette.com/calendar for more details.

Important Notes

All fireworks are illegal in Riverside — fines start at $1,500
Bring blankets and lawn chairs for fireworks viewing
Arrive early for best parking and viewing spots
Consider the "Paws & Peace" event if you want to help comfort shelter pets during fireworks. Visit petsadoption.org for more information.