There is something truly magical about celebrating America’s independence along the rugged shores of the Pacific or under the wide open blue skies of Central Oregon. But 2026 is different. This is the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Communities across Oregon are planning historic parades, larger than life fireworks, and multi day festivals.
Whether you want to watch fireworks over the ocean or float the Deschutes River after a quirky pet parade, now is the time to plan. Meredith Lodging offers spacious oceanfront homes and cozy mountain retreats. Book early. Holiday weekends sell out fast. And our exclusive weekly deals won’t last. Check our current Meredith Specials for last minute luxury and price reductions before you finalize your plans.
Here is your complete guide to the best July 4th celebrations on the Oregon Coast and in Central Oregon for 2026.
Why Book a Vacation Rental with Meredith Lodging for July 4th?
Hotels are cramped and noisy. You share walls, parking lots, and public spaces. A vacation rental from Meredith Lodging changes everything.
More space for your family. Our homes have separate bedrooms, full kitchens, and private living areas. Cook your own 4th of July barbecue without restaurant crowds.
Pet friendly options. Bring your dog. Many of our homes have fenced yards and are close to pet friendly beaches and parks.
Private hot tubs. After a long day at parades or on the beach, soak under the stars in your own hot tub.
Direct views of fireworks. Stay in an oceanfront home in Lincoln City or a lakefront property on Devils Lake. Watch the show from your deck.
Save money on meals. A full kitchen means you can cook breakfast, pack lunches, and grill dinner. No expensive hotel food.
Easy booking and local support. We are based in Oregon. Our team knows every home.
The Oregon Coast: Where Fireworks Light Up the Pacific
The Oregon Coast offers salty sea air, crashing waves, and sky high patriotism. From north to south, here are the best places to celebrate.
Seaside: The West Coast’s Biggest Beach Blast
Seaside hosts one of the largest official fireworks shows on the West Coast. The display launches over the Pacific Ocean near the Turnaround at Broadway Street at 10:00 p.m. The family friendly 4th of July Parade marches through town rain or shine. There is also an Old Fashioned Social with food, music, games, a cake walk, silent auction, and face painting. Book a Seaside vacation rental today. Walk to the parade and watch fireworks from the promenade.
Cannon Beach & Arch Cape: Fireworks Free but Full of Fun
Cannon Beach is fireworks free to protect wildlife. Instead, enjoy the Independence Day Parade at 11:00 a.m., the Great Puffin Watch, and community gatherings at the fire station. For more seclusion, stay in nearby Arch Cape. Browse Cannon Beach vacation rentals and Arch Cape vacation rentals. You will be steps from Haystack Rock.
Gearhart: Quiet Coastal Classic
Gearhart offers a laid back Independence Day. Enjoy the small town atmosphere and easy beach access. Then drive a few minutes to Seaside for the evening fireworks. Find your Gearhart vacation rentals with Meredith Lodging. Escape the crowds without missing the action.
Lincoln City, Roads End, Devils Lake, Belhaven & Lincoln Beach: Stars, Stripes and Wildlife
Lincoln City’s 2026 event is called Stars, Stripes and Wildlife. Daytime festivities start at noon in the Taft District. Live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and wildlife education. The evening ends with a professional fireworks display over Devils Lake.
Gleneden Beach & Depoe Bay: Between Two Fireworks Shows
These small towns sit between Lincoln City and Newport. You can see fireworks at either location. Gleneden Beach is family friendly. Depoe Bay is the Whale Watching Capital. Both offer stunning ocean views. Explore Gleneden Beach vacation rentals and Depoe Bay vacation rentals.
Newport, Beverly Beach & South Beach: Symphony and Fireworks over Yaquina Bay
Newport is a crown jewel for the 250th anniversary. On July 4th, enjoy a free concert by the Newport Symphony Orchestra at 4:00 p.m. Then watch fireworks over Yaquina Bay at 10:00 p.m. The display launches from the Port of Newport.
Rockaway Beach & Garibaldi: Train Ride and Fireworks
Rockaway Beach has an annual parade at 11 a.m., Dachshund Races, beach races, and a treasure hunt. Fireworks at dusk. For a unique experience, board the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad’s Fireworks Spectacular in Garibaldi. Garibaldi Days also features a parade, classic car show, live music, and bay fireworks. Book Rockaway Beach vacation rentals or Garibaldi vacation rentals.
Manzanita: Volunteer Funded Fireworks
Manzanita has one of the best fireworks displays on the coast, funded by community donations. The parade starts at 1 p.m. followed by live music and a free all American barbecue. Find your Manzanita vacation rentals today.
Special Treat: F-15 Eagle Flyovers
The 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard will conduct F-15 Eagle flyovers on the morning of July 4th, 2026. Times include 10:18 a.m. in Manzanita, 10:20 a.m. in Rockaway Beach, and 10:25 a.m. in Neskowin. A breathtaking start to your day.
Central Oregon: High Desert Independence
Central Oregon offers warmer weather, pine trees, and river floats. Small town traditions and mountain views make the perfect holiday.
Bend: The Legendary Pet Parade
The Bend Pet Parade is an Oregon Heritage Tradition running since 1924. On July 4, 2026, thousands of participants will dress up their dogs, cats, llamas, and lizards. The lineup starts at Harmon Park at 8:30 a.m. with the parade at 9:30 a.m. After the parade, float the Deschutes River from Riverbend Park to Drake Park. Stay in a Bend vacation rental and walk to the parade.
Sunriver: Family Fun at The Village
Sunriver offers a relaxed resort style 4th of July. The Village parade includes a bike parade, carnival games, pony rides, and live entertainment. Afterward, enjoy the SHARC aquatic center with a massive pool complex and lazy river. Book a Sunriver vacation rental for the perfect family getaway.
Sisters: Small Town Americana
Sisters 4th Fest features a Red, White & Blue Fun Run, pancake breakfast, Kids On Wheels parade, live music, pie eating contests, and watermelon seed spitting. Reserve a Sisters vacation rental and enjoy the festivities.
Black Butte Ranch: Traditional Family Fun
Black Butte Ranch celebrates with a bike parade, picnic on the Lodge lawn, old fashioned games, climbing wall, and live music. Find your Black Butte Ranch vacation rental.
These Highway 26 villages are perfect for a quiet nature filled holiday. Hike, barbecue, and relax in a private home. Browse Welches, Brightwood, and Rhododendron rentals. For all mountain destinations, visit Mt. Hood vacation rentals.
Exclusive 2026 July 4th Specials: Book Now and Save
We know life moves fast. If you haven’t booked your holiday weekend yet, don’t panic. Meredith Lodging offers incredible last minute deals and weekly specials.
Visit our Meredith Specials page right now. You will find homes with availability for the upcoming weekend at greatly reduced rates. These deals are announced weekly and go fast.
Why wait? The best homes for firework views and parade access are already being booked. Secure your spot today.
Plan Your Ultimate 4th of July Getaway Today
America is turning 250 years old. Do not spend it watching fireworks on your couch. Get to the Oregon Coast to see them reflect off the Pacific. Or head to Central Oregon to celebrate under the stars.
