Fire Causes Cancellation of Goleta’s July 4 Festivities

Shortly after the area affected by the Gap Fire was declared a state of emergency today, the City of Goleta cancelled its Independence Day festivities, including the 34th annual Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration at Rancho La Patera and the Stow House and the Goleta Fireworks Festival at Girsh Park. The Democrat Barbecue, which was also planned to be at the Stow House, has also been cancelled.

City of Santa Barbara officials, however, have decided to proceed with the annual waterfront fireworks show in downtown Santa Barbara, according to a statement issued this afternoon.

Authorities are also encouraging drivers to avoid using Cathedral Oaks Road between Winchester Road and Fairview Avenue, as this portion of the road is being used for emergency vehicles and fire trucks.