Saratoga’s Semiquincentennial celebrations

Saratoga Nights kicks off the city’s Independence Day celebrations on July 2, 5-8 p.m., in the Village Center parking lot. The event continues on the first Thursday of every month through October and features live music, wine and beer gardens, local food offerings and family‑friendly activities. www.saratoga.ca.us

Saratoga also celebrates 16 years of America the Beautiful, bringing red, white and blue to the Village throughout July. Community members are encouraged to show their patriotism by joining the decorating project. The effort is organized by Patricia Himel and Laurel Perusa and sponsored by the Saratoga Village Development Council, with help from Village business owners, volunteers and local students.

If you need patriotic decorations, the Fat Robin at 14429 Big Basin Way is the place to go. One of Saratoga’s oldest businesses, it is a treasure trove of home décor.

Saratoga’s main holiday event is the Old‑Fashioned Independence Day Celebration that takes place July 4, 9:30-11 a.m., at Kevin Moran Park. Hundreds, if not thousands of people come to this charming hometown event. It’s free and features a children’s parade, patriotic music by the 100-plus members of the McCartysville Band, group singing, historical figures ringing the Liberty Bell and free popsicles. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs; shaded seating is available for seniors and people with disabilities. “Voices of Freedom,” a brief history of the nation presented by costumed community members, will be part of the program.

Residents have a couple upcoming opportunities to meet with Mayor Chuck Page. The Mayor’s Office Hours will be held at the Saratoga Farmers’ Market on July 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. You can also have coffee with the mayor at the Starbucks at 18800 Cox Ave. on July 17, 9-10 a.m. Whether you’re curious about city initiatives, have suggestions or simply want to say hello, Page looks forward to connecting with community members in person.

Saratoga’s Summer Movie Night on July 10 features “Zootopia 2” at El Quito Park. The movie begins at dusk, but families are invited to come early, bring blankets, and find a good spot on the lawn.

Coming up: luncheons at Montalvo, the Saratoga Classic and Cool Car Show on July 26 beginning at 10 a.m., and the Aug. 22 celebration of Saratoga’s 70th anniversary.