How To Celebrate The 4th In The Bay Area

shutterstock_1117970255Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com

When the 4th of July happens to fall on a Wednesday, as it does this year, there are two choices one can make to celebrate the holiday. The first is to take the week off and head out of town to someplace like Tahoe or Yountville. The second is to stay in SF and enjoy the day off. Whatever you decide to do, there are plenty of fun summery options to make the most of the all-American extravaganza. Here’s how to get your red, white, and blue on in every region of the Bay Area

4505BBQ_005Photo Credit: 4505 Burgers & BBQ

In SF

Be the bell of the barbecue when you show up with a platter of smoked meat from 4505 Burgers & BBQ. The beloved butcher turned restauranteur Ryan Farr slow cooks ribs, pork shoulder, and brisket until the tender meat falls off the bone. Side dishes like classic cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans, and Parker House rolls are also available.

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In Wine Country

Up in St. Helena, Long Meadow Ranch is hosting a firework show viewing party on the lawn at Farmstead. There will be live music, festive cocktails, and American food items. Think cherry wood smoked barbecue chicken, 12-hour heritage pulled pork, and corn on the cob. Chariot transportation is available to take you from SF to the event, which starts at 5 p.m.

NMC-114_previewPhoto Credit: Mendocino Grove

In Mendocino

Enjoy the crisp salty air and views of the beautiful California coast at Mendocino Grove, a premium glamping ground in Mendocino. The resort has a special 4th of July-themed package that includes accommodations for two in their signature safari tent, a camp box with grilling utensils (everything you need to cook a delicious meal) and kabob ingredients, a bottle of Navarro Vineyards Pinot Noir, a s’mores kit, and ice chest. Mendocino offers plenty of awesome activities: watch the small town parade, kayak through sea caves, or explore the wineries of nearby Alexander Valley.

Sanctuary22Photo Credit: Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette

In Monterey

Heading South? Grab a seat on the patio of Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette in Monterey. Executive chef David Baron is a hearth master who grills everything from whole fish to beef burger patties. Sip 21st Amendment’s watermelon wheat beer and let the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean relax you.

Exterior 2016Photo Credit: Copita

In Sausalito

At Copita Tequileria y Comida, just across the bridge, the restaurant will be hosting a special mid-week brunch. Stop by the eatery between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4 and indulge in Copita’s new Bloody Maria that’s made with tequila and a housemade sangrita. Devour lamb chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, or breakfast tacos.

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In Oakland

On Wednesday, from noon to 5 p.m., there will be a massive block party in Jack London Square. There will be a beer garden, backyard-style barbecue, and a kids’ zone with games and crafts. The block party will feature live music from Sang Matiz, an Afro-Latin funk group, reggae artist Heartafiya, and Oakland-based hip-hop artist, The Corna Sto.