Old-Fashioned 4th of July

California State Parks invites you to celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with 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 California’s 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.