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Where to see fireworks this holiday weekend
fireworks
There are a number of places in Turlock and the surrounding area where fireworks shows will be part of 4th of July celebrations (Photo contributed).

BY JOE CORTEZ AND KRISTINA HACKER

Turlock Journal

The nation’s semiquincentennial – its 250th birthday – is just days away and there are several local fireworks displays scheduled to put colors bursting in air.

Here’s a list of some fireworks displays throughout the region:

  • Turlock – The annual downtown parade will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Friday this year, followed by a holiday festival and fireworks show at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds.
  • Modesto – Just as they do every Friday night home game, the Modesto Roadsters will host a fireworks display this Friday, following the conclusion of their Pioneer League game against the Oakland Ballers at Modern Woodmen Field (former John Thurman Field). Gates open at 6 p.m. and first pitch is at 7:11.
  • Don Pedro – Turlock Irrigation District is one of the sponsors for the 2026 Fireworks on the Water show that will begin 9:30 p.m. on Saturday at Lake Don Pedro. Parking is limited so plan to arrive early: $40 per vehicle or $20 per vessel.
  • Gustine — This westside community will host its annual parade down Main Street and North Avenue starting at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, with fireworks set to go off after dusk at the high school campus. Gates open at 6 p.m.
  • Atwater – For over 60 years the Atwater 4th of July Festival has brought together tens of thousands of people to celebrate independence. A festival will be held in Ralston Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the concert and fireworks show is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Castle Commerce Center.
  • Oakdale — The Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors will host the 30th annual Fireworks Celebration at Woodward Reservoir on Saturday. This longtime community tradition will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display beginning at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Visitors are encouraged to make a day of it at Woodward Reservoir by enjoying the park's many recreational opportunities before the fireworks light up the night sky. Day-use admission is $40 per vehicle. Guests may enjoy the park throughout the day before the evening concludes with the fireworks show. Day-use visitors must exit the park by 10 p.m.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early, as entry is available on a first-come, first-served basis and the park typically reaches capacity on Independence Day. To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, there are no in-and-out privileges on July 4, walk-in access is not permitted, and parking along the perimeter of the park is prohibited. These restrictions will be strictly enforced by the California Highway Patrol and the Stanislaus County Sheriff's Office.

This year's celebration will feature an expanded selection of on-site food vendors, including Taquerias Las Palmas, Yogurt Mill, and Okey Dokey Donuts. Crescent Supply will also operate both the General Store at the Marina and the Outdoor Store at Mountain View Point, offering cold treats, hot dogs, nachos, snacks, beverages, and essential items such as ice, water, firewood, shade hats, sunscreen and water toys.

Visitors planning to enjoy the water are encouraged to wear a life jacket during all water activities, regardless of age or swimming ability. Free loaner life jackets are available at the Marina through a grant from the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways. Please return loaner life jackets before leaving so they remain available for future visitors.

On July 4, access to Woodward Reservoir will be available only through the 26 Mile Road South entrance.