TURLOCK, Calif. — Eyes will be looking back toward the sky on the Fourth of July in the city of Turlock.
The city canceled its Fourth of July fireworks show in 2019. Since then, its festivities were anchored by the annual parade and car show in downtown. Now, five years later, they won't be doing all the work themselves.
A new drone show will debut after the parade on June 28. Here's what to know for the Downtown Turlock Independence Celebration.
Fourth of July in Turlock
While there are no booms and fireworks in store for the Fourth of July celebration in downtown Turlock, there is still more than there's been in years.
2024 marks the debut of a new drone show. It'll be put on by Sky Runner out of Fresno. It debuts at 9 p.m. June 28.
There are still plenty of reasons to head downtown before then.
The annual parade will kick off at 6:30 p.m. with the Grand Marshall position being given to the late Joe Fagundes. He died in 2023. Fagundes' family will be riding in his honor. His daughter will also be driving a car he restored in the parade.
The parade draws in nearly 20,000 people every year, so if you're planning on going, be sure to grab a spot early. They can go fast.
The parade runs down Main Street in downtown Turlock, generally starting near the Post Office and ending near Turlock City Hall on Broadway.
Some local veterans will also be honored before the parade during the opening ceremonies in Central Park.
The traditional car show is now June 29, running from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. It'll coincide with the Turlock Certified Farmers Market and a makers market.
Fourth of July fireworks safety
If you choose to celebrate Independence Day at home and bypass the parades and public events, you should read up on any ordinances in your city or county before buying any fireworks. Fireworks are illegal in certain areas of the state due to serious injuries and millions in property loss from fireworks-sparked wildfires.
According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, an average of 18,000 fires are started every year by fireworks, both illegal ones and “safe and sane” fireworks” used improperly.
To celebrate the Fourth of July safely, the Office of the State Fire Marshal says you should only use fireworks outdoors, and never near dry grass or other flammable materials. It’s also recommended to keep a bucket of water and a hose nearby when using fireworks.
Regardless of where you go in California, using fireworks that explode, leave the ground or move about the ground uncontrollably is illegal. These fireworks include skyrockets, bottle rockets and Roman candles. Anyone caught with illegal fireworks could face fines or even arrest.
All legal fireworks include the “Safe and Sane” logo from the California State Fire Marshal on them. If you are not sure if your fireworks are legal, you can contact your nearest Cal Fire facility or local fire station.
