Merced County cities prepare for Independence Day
For those who want to see the lights, crackles and bangs of fireworks this Independence Day, but want more than a show in the driveway, there are options around Merced County.
Area fire officials have asked residents to be extra careful with fireworks at home, because the drought has left grassy fields dry and ready to ignite. The professional shows are regulated and watched by California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection crews.
Here are some of the shows happening on the Fourth of July:
Atwater
▪ Parade, live music and fireworks show
▪ 7:30 a.m. Saturday, “Run for Independence” at Ralston Park. Parade begins at 9 a.m. in front of Foster’s Freeze, 1401 Winton Way. Fourth of July Festival is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday in Ralston Park. Fireworks and concert from Mike Hammer and the Nails and MoFo Party Band at Castle Airport is 6 p.m.
▪ $5 per carload
Gustine
▪ Parade and festival
▪ Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. Saturday on Main Street, followed by a festival in Henry Miller Park near Sixth Street and Third Avenue. At nightfall, there will be fireworks at Gustine High School stadium, 501 North Ave. Gates open 6:30 p.m.
▪ Free
▪ www.members.tripod.com/gustinecofc
Livingston
▪ Carnival and fireworks show
▪ Carnival runs Thursday through Sunday at Memorial Park and Livingston High School, near Park and Main streets. Fireworks show is 9:30 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Park.
▪ Fireworks show and festival are free. Tickets must be purchased for carnival rides.
▪ http://livingston4thofjuly.com
Merced
▪ Merced Marching 100 “safe and sane” fireworks show
▪ Vehicles from law enforcement, first responders and race car drivers will be on display at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday at Olive Avenue and G Street, with a fireworks show featuring “safe and sane” pyrotechnics to follow at 9 p.m.
▪ Free
This story was originally published June 29, 2015 at 4:00 PM with the headline "Merced County cities prepare for Independence Day."