Parade Entries and Festival Vendor Applications Now Open for City of Stockton 4th of July Celebration

STOCKTON, Calif. – Plans are underway for this year’s annual 4th of July Celebration, and organizers are now accepting parade entries and festival vendor applications for this year’s Independence Day festivities.

This year’s celebration will hold special significance as communities across the nation commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, making this Independence Day an especially meaningful occasion to celebrate the United States of America’s history, patriotism, and community spirit.

The annual 4th of July Parade will be hosted by the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16, continuing a long-standing tradition of honoring patriotism, service, and community spirit. Community groups, marching bands, businesses, nonprofits, classic car owners, and performers are invited to participate in the parade festivities.

Following the parade, the City of Stockton will host the annual 4th of July Festival at Weber Point Events Center, featuring food vendors, artisan booths, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and free viewing of the fireworks show along the downtown waterfront.

As part of this year’s festivities, the Stockton Symphony will perform during the annual festival, adding a special musical tribute to the day’s events and helping commemorate this historic national milestone.

Vendor applications are now open for businesses, food vendors, nonprofits, and craft vendors interested in participating in the festival. Interested vendors are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited.

“We are proud to partner with the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16 to bring this cherished community tradition to life each year,” says Tina McCarty, Director of Economic Development. “Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States makes this year’s event even more special, and we look forward to a memorable day of patriotism, music, and community celebration.”

The annual celebration draws hundreds of attendees each year and provides an opportunity for local organizations and businesses to engage with the community.

Event Details:
Annual 4th of July Parade hosted by the American Legion Karl Ross Post 16
Annual 4th of July Festival hosted by the City of Stockton
Date: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Parade Time: Starts at 10:00 a.m.
Parade Route: Starts at Weber Avenue, up El Dorado Street, to Oak Street, and back down Center Street. Grandstand in front of the Civic Auditorium
Festival Time: Gates open at 5:00 p.m.
Festival Location: Weber Point Events Center, 221 N. Center Street

Parade entry forms and festival vendor applications are now available. For parade entries, submit a Parade Entry Form at https://www.stocktonca.gov/4thofJuly

For festival vendor applications, complete the Special Event Vendor Application Form, available at https://www.stocktonca.gov/4thofJuly. Completed applications must be sent to ed-specialevents@stocktonca.gov no later than 10:00 am on Friday, June 19, 2026. Approved vendors will be contacted and required to submit a vendor fee and additional documentation.