San Francisco Bay Area Fireworks, 4th of July 2009 Schedule

The San Francisco Bay Area is a flurry of fireworks every July 4^th. One of the hot spots is the fireworks show at Pier 39 in the city of San Francisco, but if you are looking for fireworks closer to home in the East Bay or on the peninsula, here is a list of scheduled fireworks in the Bay Area for the 2009 season.

San Francisco Peninsula:

Foster City

Every year, Foster City puts on one of the best fireworks shows I've ever seen. This year, the fireworks will start at 9:30 pm, and can be viewed at Leo Park. Free parking will be available at Parkside Towers' parking garage on Shell Blvd. Leave your tarps, personal fireworks and cigarettes at home, as these are not allowed at this year's festivities. Also of note, SamTrans will not be giving free transportation to and from the viewing area this year, so be sure to bring bus fare or find a friend to ride with. Festivities start at 8:00 am

Redwood City

Redwood City holds a spectacular fireworks show that can be easily seen throughout the city. The annual 4^th of July parade starts at 10:00 am, and fireworks will start around 9:30 pm. Viewers can visit the Port of Redwood City and gather at the waterfront off of Seaport Court. Be sure to arrive as early as 7:00pm. Parking is limited, and as soon as all spots are taken, police will close off Seaport Blvd to through traffic. The public boat ramp will remain open, and you are more than welcome to watch the fireworks from your boat as long as it is anchored away from the fireworks safety zone.

Mountain View

This year, Radio Disney is presenting the Shoreline Amphitheater's 4^th of July fireworks show, featuring the San Francisco Symphony, and special guest George Takei. This year's theme is, "A look towards the future," and the symphony orchestra will perform songs from 2001: A Space Odyssey, Star Wars, and The Planets. The show starts at 8:00 pm. Tickets are on sale now for between $15.00 and $29.50. These as well as VIP parking tickets can be purchased online at www.livenation.com/edp/eventId/408122.

East Bay:

Berkeley

If you live near Berkeley, be sure to check out this year's fireworks show at the Berkeley Marina. This free event start at 11:00 am, but the fireworks will start at 9:30pm at the end of the Berkeley Pier. Alcohol is not allowed, and this show is bicycle-friendly, as there will be a free bike valet service that evening.

Livermore

Robertson Park will be the location for Livermore's 2009 4^th of July fireworks show. The gates will open at 3:00pm and admission is $3.00 per walk-in, and $15.00 per car. Parking lots will close at 8:30 pm, and pedestrian gates will close at 9:30 pm. Featured musical guests are Zoo Station and The Sun Kings. Fireworks are scheduled to start at dusk. No alcohol, bottles, cans, fireworks, barbecues, or pets will be allowed in the park. Coolers will be checked, and visitors are advised to bring their bikes at their own risk.