It’s an interesting time to be an American! It’s an even more interesting time to be a proud American, some might wager, but if that’s you, you’re in luck. Just about every major municipality in Humboldt is hosting some kind of Independence Day celebration this week, should you find yourself feeling patriotic (or just hungry). 

See below a list of the larger celebrations that will honor this fine country as its founders intended (that is: by consuming highly processed carnivorous foods and craning your neck to gape at deafening light shows). 

At a glance, ALL of these events will have food and music, and you can see fireworks in Fortuna, Benbow and Eureka. If you are looking for something a little more intimate to do, check out the Lowdown for more happenings.

And finally, for the love of America, remember that it’s going to be fucking scorching this weekend. If you plan to set off your own fireworks, Cal Fire asks you to please be mindful of the serious risks associated with that choice. See their full message below.

Okay! Here’s the list:

Fortuna  

Fortuna Fireworks Festival
July 3 / 5:30-10:30 p.m. / Newburg Park / Fireworks at dark
Kid-oriented, bring your own fireworks
This looks like the busiest and most ambitious of the 4th of July gatherings, and it’s not even on the 4th of July! You MAY bring your own fireworks to set off in the parking lot behind the event, if that sounds fun to you. It will also be any true American child’s absolute dreamscape: A $10 wristband will buy “three hours of unlimited fun” including but not limited to bounce houses, mechanical bulls and a petting zoo. After that, you can see fire dancers, and then you can dance, and then, at dark, you can see more fireworks.

Arcata

4th of July Jubilee
July 4 / 11:00- 4:00 p.m. / Arcata Plaza 
Weirdest attractions
Arcata is bringing it. There will be a dunk tank. There will be aerial silks performances. What more do you need to know?

Eureka

4th of July Festival
July 4 / 10-5 p.m. / Old Town / Fireworks at 10:00 p.m.
Music festival energy! There are TWO stages at this one.
This looks like Friday Night Market on steroids. Eureka Main Street tells us that in addition to pursuing the many vendors, “attendees can also enjoy fire trucks, police cars, horse & carriage rides, speeder car rides, Madaket Bay Cruises, and more.” Cute!

Ferndale

4th of July Barbeque, 4th of July Parade
July 4 / 11-2 p.m. / Ferndale Memorial Veterans Hall
The most classic of the gatherings
Here, folks will find a traditional picnic atmosphere. Bring your blanket, spread out on the lawn, eat some BBQ and, at noon, watch a charming parade of firetrucks and other patriotic floats roll down Main Street.

Garberville

Fireworks at Benbow State Park
July 4 / 1-7 p.m. / Benbow State Recreation Area / Fireworks at dusk
In nature
After a four-year hiatus, Humboldt’s southernmost 4th of July bash is back. It’s got what all the other celebrations have got – music, vendors, food – but in the boondocks.

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Release from Cal Fire Humboldt: 

With the 4th of July just a few days away, it is important to consider the dangers of fireworks. CAL FIRE Humboldt – Del Norte Unit Chief Kurt McCray would like to remind everyone that very hot and dry weather will increase the risk of wildfire this week and to use extra caution during outdoor activities.

Every year fires are caused by illegal and unsafe use of legal fireworks. This puts members of the public, first responders, and property at risk. Those responsible for starting a fire due to illegal use of fireworks can be held financially and criminally responsible. Possession of illegal fireworks could lead to fines and jail time. Some illegal fireworks are considered a destructive device, and possession constitutes a felony.
The use and sale of Safe and Sane fireworks is decided by local governments. Permitted Safe and Sane fireworks will bear a seal from the Office of the State Marshal. Be sure to check for specific restrictions in your area and take all precautions when using Safe and Sane fireworks if they are permitted.
Fireworks Safety Tips:
• Use only State Fire Marshal approved fireworks
• Local ordinances should be verified before purchasing and/or using fireworks
• Always read directions
• Always have an adult present
• Only use fireworks outdoors
• Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials
• Light one firework at a time
• Have a bucket of water and a hose nearby
CAL FIRE encourages celebrating by viewing a professionally licensed firework show. For those using their own fireworks, we urge only the use of Safe and Sane fireworks in a manner that provides for the best safety of persons and minimizes the risk of fire.