Celebrate July 4th on the USS Hornet

The USS Hornet is hosting its annual family friendly Independence Day celebration from 1 to 9 p.m. on Monday, July 4, featuring live music on the flight deck, interactive games for all ages, and a bounce house for kids. In the evening, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks from the flight deck.

The ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda. There is ample free parking across from the pier.

Throughout the day, guests are welcome to explore the many decks of the legendary aircraft carrier. Open for public tour are the flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, captain’s bridge, ship’s hospital, combat information center and torpedo shop. Exhibits include the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display and more than a dozen aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Visitors can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and a helicopter from the “Apollo 13” movie. 

The USS Hornet Museum opens at noon and will offer plenty of interactive activities from 1 to 8  p.m. A variety of carnival and table-top games will be located inside the Hangar Deck. On the Flight Deck, there will be a bounce house and inflatable games for all ages. One of the highlights is a chance to ride the flight simulator through a jet fighter mission.

The highlight of the family-friendly event is a concert on the Flight Deck starting at 2 p.m. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay while listening to live music on the ship’s flight deck. Scheduled bands will perform a wide variety of music, including Celtic rock by Tempest, oldies Rock ‘n’ Roll by Eddie & the Boppers, ‘60s to present day rock music by the Gabe Duffin Band, and classic rock by the Mighty NepTunes. Following the concert, guests are welcome to remain on the Flight Deck to watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks.

A great selection of food, beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.

All-day admission is $25 for adults ($20 in advance) and $10 for children ages 5-17; museum members receive free admission. Family & Friends Membership for one year is $75.