Los Gatos is preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence with a Fourth of July festival at Oak Meadow Park. The town, located approximately 4 miles southeast of Saratoga, will host events honoring the historical milestone that followed the American Revolutionary War, which lasted from 1775 to 1783 and concluded with the Treaty of Paris.
The day’s schedule begins at 10:45 a.m. with a welcoming address by Mayor Moore. He stated that the gathering highlights the strength of the community coming together to celebrate democracy during times that may feel divisive. Following the speech, the Los Gatos Boy Scout Troop 2 color guard, supported by the Los Gatos Veterans Memorial and Support Foundation, will raise the flag. The San Jose Wind Symphony will perform the National Anthem.
At 11 a.m., the Los Gatos Liberty Bell will be rung. A town spokesperson noted that this tradition was revived through the efforts of community member Jeff Des Jarlais and Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad general manager Will Whitney, both United States veterans. The bell was originally brought from San Francisco in 1963, and residents later purchased a dedicated bell that was rung annually for many years.
The Children’s Bike and Stroller Parade will commence at 11:05 a.m., inviting children of all ages to decorate their vehicles and ride around the meadow. The Town’s Complete Streets and Transportation Commission will provide valet parking for bikes and strollers. The San Jose Wind Symphony will perform a patriotic concert at the Oak Meadow Bandstand from 11:15 a.m. to 12 p.m. This performance continues a long-standing tradition that originally began with the Los Gatos High School Marching Band.
Additional activities include a wine and beer garden hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Los Gatos, rides on the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and a carousel, and a booth by the Los Gatos Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets, and food trucks will be available. The town also plans to allow attendees to help handwrite the US Constitution during the day.