STOCKTON – It’s been a few years since the City of Stockton last put together a pyrotechnic display along the downtown waterfront.

But thanks to the Stockton Ports, the Oakland Athletics’ Class-A (Advanced) team, a fireworks show is once again made possible.

Last year, the Ports were on the road on the Fourth of July.

In its place was a family event consisting of a youth baseball clinic hosted by Major League Baseball Alumni Association held at Banner Island Ballpark followed by a Legends of Baseball Vintage Showdown. Those attending were treated to an after-game fireworks show not to mention seeing the likes of Kevin Mitchell, Bert Campaneris, Steve Sax, Mark Whiten and Brian Hunter, to name a few, in action.

This year, events are being held to piggy-back on the Ports’ fireworks show.

Included is the Fourth of July barbecue at the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel, 110 W. Fremont St.

Cost is $30 for adults, $10 for children. Included will be barbecue buffet from 6 to 8 p.m. along with live music and use of the hotel swimming pool (don’t forget to bring a towel).

Doors open at 5 p.m.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 209-323-3057.

Independence Day in Stockton kicks off with a parade on the Miracle Mile – starting from Pacific Avenue at Harding Way, and ending at Pacific and Castle Street – at 9 a.m.

Admission is free and food items will be available for purchase.

Those attending are encouraged to bring out their folding chairs or blanket.

The Fourth of July parade will also feature entertainment along with the all-American spirit.

As for the baseball game, the Ports will be taking on the Modesto Nuts beginning at 7:05 p.m. The Independence Day fireworks show is being presented by Food 4 Less.

Some may choose to sit outside and view the fireworks across the way from the Deep Water Channel, the Joan Darah Promenade, Weber Point or the Downtown Marina.

In either case, it’s free.

LODI

Swimming, boating and fireworks are part of the Fourth of July fun at this City of Lodi-sponsored event.

The   day of fun in the sun begins at 7 a.m. at the admission-free Lodi Lake Park, with the gates opening during this time.

Included will be a pancake breakfast along with other attractions such as a reptile show along with an arts and crafts show on the north side of the lake.

Public swimming and boat rentals are available beginning at 10 a.m. Admission to the swimming area is $3 for adults, $1.50 for children ages 3 to 17, and free for youngsters ages 2 and under. The beach area will be closed at 7 p.m.

The park will also be closed to traffic on this day. Nearby Turner Road will be closed to traffic between Mills Avenue and Ham Lane. Parking for those with disabilities will be allowed east of the park on Laurel Avenue.

The fireworks show is scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m.

For the safety of visitors, the park is prohibiting skates, scooters, fishing equipment, pets, alcohol beverages, personal barbecue, glass bottles or weapons on this holiday.

In addition, the Nature Area will be closed. 



— VINCE REMBULAT

209 Staff reporter