San Francisco Fireworks and Festivities. With the oldest Chinatown in the country, San Francisco is famous for hosting incredible fireworks displays. If you are new to the city, or planning to visit, the biggest and loudest celebration is on the waterfront. San Francisco 4th of July Waterfront Celebration & Fireworks begins at noon and continues well after dark.

Along Pier 39 at Fisherman’s Wharf there are huge crowds, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display in the evening.  If you live or plan to be near this area, the massive fireworks will launch from the foot of MUNI Pier and barges just north of PIER 39.

With these crowds and activities, please remember your four-legged family members. Celebrating July 4th with family and friends is a wonderful tradition and holiday. However in the excitement of your first sparkler, don't forget fido. Whether you celebrate at home, with neighbors or outdoors with the rest of small town America, here are seven basic tips to keep your pet safe:

• Have a quiet area indoors, where your pet can feel sheltered and safe.
• Skip taking your pet outdoors or to the fireworks display.
• Make sure your pet is microchipped & has ID tags on just in case they get away from you or the house (check to make sure your contact information is up to date!).
• Never leave your dog outside even if they are not unattended or you have a high fence, a frightened dog can do incredible "how did they do that" things to flee anything that scares them.
• If people come over with kids, don't let small children put sparklers or any objects near your dog.
• Don't leave your pet alone in your car thinking it will be safer for them there, trust us, it won't.
• If the party is at your house, consider setting your pet up with their bed in a dark room, with either the dryer running or soothing music to cover the loud noises.