Celebrating the Fourth of July in Modesto? Here’s what to know about weather, fireworks and more
It’s the Fourth of July, which means parades, firework displays, and barbecues are in full swing across the Modesto area.
Whether you’re wondering which grocery stores are open on Thursday, planning the perfect fireworks show or simply looking for something to do, The Modesto Bee has the information you seek.
Here’s what you need to know about Independence Day in Stanislaus County:
What’s open and closed on the Fourth of July?
While some Modesto-area businesses will close early on Thursday or remain closed in observance of Independence Day, many grocery stores and pharmacies will stay open during their regular hours.
Vintage Faire Mall will close early for the holiday.
Several government offices, such as post offices, public libraries, and banks, will be closed on Thursday for the Fourth of July.
Here’s a list of key Modesto-area businesses and whether they’ll be open or closed on the Fourth of July.
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Check out Independence Day events in Stanislaus County
There are plenty of things to do on Independence Day across the Modesto region, with more fun events lined up for the next few days.
Fourth of July events will include parades, firework displays and more.
Here are just a few of the highlights:
Red, White and Bloom! parade in downtown Modesto on Thursday
Fireworks show at El Rematito flea market in Modesto on Thursday
New drone show at the Stanislaus County Fair on Friday and Saturday
Fireworks-on-the-Water celebration at Lake Don Pedro on Saturday
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What’s in the weather forecast for Modesto?
As a heat wave continues to bake much of California, Modesto can expect more triple-degree temperatures on the Fourth of July and over the weekend.
A high temperature near 108 is forecast for Thursday, while the highs are expected to 109 on Friday, 111 on Saturday and 110 on Sunday.
The heat wave is expected to persist into next week.
“We are not seeing much relief until maybe mid to late next week,” said Katrina Hand, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
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Is it dangerous to light fireworks during a heat wave?
Modesto residents should be extra cautious when lighting fireworks during the heat wave, according to state fire officials.
Heat, wind and fireworks can create a dangerous combination, Cal Fire deputy state fire marshal Kara Garrett told The Sacramento Bee via email.
When it comes to storing fireworks, Garrett said “it’s always best to err on the side of caution to prevent any accidents from occurring.”
That includes “not storing fireworks in a hot car.”
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Which fireworks are illegal to use?
“California has zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks,” the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said on its website.
It is illegal to sell, transport, or use fireworks without the “safe and sane” seal.
In California, illegal fireworks include:
Sky rockets
Bottle rockets
Roman candles
Aerial shells
Firecrackers
What’s more, officials say, there are penalties if you break the law.
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What are fines for illegal firework use in Modesto?
In Modesto, fines have doubled for illegal fireworks use, and law enforcement expects to increase efforts in catching people.
The Modesto City Council recently approved setting penalties at $2,000 for the first offense, $3,000 for a second offense and $4,000 for subsequent offenses within 36 months.
Police officers can also issue citations to renters or homeowners residing in properties where illegal fireworks have been used.
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