7/4/2026    Old Town San Diego SHP

Old-Fashioned 4th of July

California State Parks invite you to celebrate Americas 250th Birthday as an Old-Fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park! 

When: Saturday, July 4th, 2026

Time: 11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.

Are you looking for a FREE and fun way to celebrate the 4th of July? Join us in celebrating Californias 175th by bringing your family to celebrate an Old-Fashioned 4th of July at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park!

From 11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M, visitors can join park staff and volunteers in celebrating our country's independence with living history demonstrations, and hands-on art activities!

Come play outside at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with 19th century pastimes in the plaza! Challenge family and friends of all ages to wheelbarrow races, tug of war, sack races and other competitive lawn games. Don’t forget to relax and enjoy a collaborative game of graces or try your hand at the old fashion hoop and stick!

Arrive early for the 11:00 A.M. kickoff with the annual flag raising ceremony featuring local scouts and a brass band. Stay and listen to live music, enjoy traditional hands-on art activities, and visit the many historic museums throughout the park.

End the day by participating in the annual watermelon eating contest and placing a bid in this year's community-made quilt raffle.

Public transportation is accessible via the Old Town Transit Center. Limited parking for this event is available in any of the lots surrounding Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

Thank you to our Fourth of July Event Partners and Sponsors

This event is made possible through the Boosters of Old Town San Diego a non-profit organization committed to supporting history, culture, and historic preservation in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Learn more about the Boosters of Old Town at boostersofoldtown.com.