Businesses at Stearns Wharf brace for packed crowd ahead of 4th of July celebration
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Businesses at Stearns Wharf are bracing for a packed crowd ahead of the 4th of July celebration.
The wharf is already busy with visitors.
"It’s a wonderful opportunity to come for the Fourth of July and I brought my sister my cousin and my friend from Vegas," said visitor Grace Lay.
The wharf is projected to be completely packed this holiday weekend.
"Who cares if it’s crowded that’s what Fourth of July is and that’s crazy but that’s okay," said visitor Marie Rayburn of Simi Valley.
Brooke Claveria of Santa Barbara can’t wait to introduce the fireworks show to her kids.
"My kids are really gonna love it I have three girls 65 and 1 1/2," said Calveria.
Businesses at the wharf welcome the increase in customers this weekend.
"Many people are here from everywhere were very busy that day it’s beautiful," said waitress Grasiela Ramirez of Char West Fish and Chips.
Customers are already filling up Nature's Own Gallery.
"It has been already busy today we are looking forward to our Fourth of July crowds and we look forward to it every single year there’s just a big party," said manager Natalie Terrell of Nature’s Own Gallery.
Whether you’re here for the food or the shopping, the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department encourages visitors to plan ahead if you’re coming to Stearns Wharf this weekend.
"The wharf gets packed with people watching the show. You'll want to come early for parking," said senior maintenance worker David Running of the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department.
"It gets crowded there’s music and just everybody singing together and it’s fun," said Claveria.
The wharf offers many attractions while you are waiting for the fireworks show to begin.
Visitors at Stearns Wharf will get to enjoy face paining, festive treats like ice cream, candy and popcorn, as well as shopping for shells, minerals and fossils.
City leaders encourage people to plan ahead as parking will be a challenge.
They're expecting an even bigger turnout this year in the aftermath of COVID.
Other activities at Stearns Wharf include water taxi, harbor tours, interactive sea center museum and more.
The fireworks show is happening at West Beach on Monday, July 4th at 9:00 p.m.
