guides

Chico Independence Day: Where to Watch Fireworks & Find Festivities

Get ready to celebrate 2024 Independence Day in Chico!

By Jillian Smith - Editor & Publisher June 27, 2024

Get ready to celebrate Independence Day in Chico! We’ve rounded up all the best events, fireworks displays, parades, and family-friendly activities happening in Chico on or around July 4, 2024. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch fireworks, enjoy live music, or participate in patriotic festivities in Chico, we’ve got you covered.

๐Ÿ’ฅChico 2024 Independence Day fireworks & family fun๐Ÿ’ฅ

June 29

CARD: Let Freedom Ring! 4th of July Celebration Event at Chapman Park

  • Details: FREE! Enjoy the new splash pad, live music, face painting, corn hole, patriotic crafts, plus free hot dogs and ice cream! Dress to get wet.


July 4

July 4th Parade Event in Downtown Chico

  • Details: FREE! This is Chico's first 4th of July parade! The theme is "America and The Freedom to Play" which will celebrate our community's commitment to outdoor spaces and recreation including our local parks, nature and greenery, community gardening, local heroes, and environmental stewardship. 

Annual Family Fun 4th of July Party Event at The Tackle Box

  • Details: FREE! Attractions include kids pool, slip n slide, inflatable obstacle course, dunk tank, temporary waterproof tattoos, cotton candy, shaved ice, and of course - a great view of the fireworks show happening at the fairgrounds!   Bring a lawn chair plus a change of clothes and some towels for the kids.

UPDATE: DUE TO HIGH HEAT AND LOCAL FIRES, THE RACES AND FIREWORKS SHOW HAVE BEEN CANCELED! 

Fireworks at Silverdollar Speedway

  • Details: The show begins after the races end, around 9:30-10:00 pm. 
  • If you are not attending the races, there are plenty of decent places to park and enjoy the show. Getting there early to get a spot and go shopping can be fun!
  • There are a lot of families who bring all kinds of fun things along with them to be festive and pass the time: 
    • Camping chairs, 
    • Bluetooth speakers
    • Glow sticks, bubbles, etc. 
    • Snacks and drinks, ice chests
    • Air mattresses for truck beds.
  • You will be there for a while!
    Anticipate everyone trying to get out of the various parking lots at the same time after the grand finale. If you can leave early or stay late it may be worth it.
  • Really anywhere that you can park close to and facing the fairgrounds should be just fine. Here are popular parking lots that are more social.
    • Costco
    • Barnes & Noble
    • Walmart
    • Community Park
    • Kohl's


Tips for Enjoying Independence Day in Chico

  • Arrive Early: Popular events can get crowded, so plan to arrive early to secure a good spot.
  • Bring Essentials: Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay comfortable throughout the day.
  • Follow Local Guidelines: Be sure to follow any local health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe celebration for everyone.
  • Consider Ear Protection for Your Child: Fireworks can be loud and overwhelming for young children. Bring ear protection like noise-canceling headphones to ensure they enjoy the festivities without discomfort.

Celebrate Independence Day in Chico with family, friends, and community! We hope you have a fantastic time enjoying all the festivities and making wonderful memories. Happy Fourth of July!