L.A. has no shortage of Independence Day festivities, but this year sees the return of many favorite 4th of July fireworks shows after a two year hiatus due to the pandemic. We’ve rounded up the best places to see fireworks this 4th of July weekend, in the heart of the city and along our beautiful coast.
Fireworks in the City
Nothing says summer traditions like the July 4th Fireworks Spectacular at the Hollywood Bowl. Join hosts Steve Martin and Martin Short, along with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, July 2-4 for this annual tradition. $27 and up; half off for ages 12 and under. hollywoodbowl.com
A few miles away, catch a movie and fireworks display at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. For the first time, Cinespia will host three nights of fireworks to accompany their signature outdoor screenings, in addition to live DJs, beer and wine, burgers and hot dogs from the grill, concession stand classics and free photobooth. On July 2 catch “The Fast and the Furious,” “Purple Rain” on July 3 and “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” on July 4. $45. cinespia.org
For a very L.A. evening, enjoy a baseball game and fireworks display above Dodger Stadium. Catch the Dodgers vs San Diego Padres on July 1 or Dodgers vs. Colorado Rockies on July 4, both followed by a spectacular fireworks display. $44 and up. mlb.com
Grand Park’s 4th of July Block Party returns this summer with family-friendly festivities, including a series of interactive multi-media art works, two stages featuring DJs and musical performances, dancing, food and fireworks display over Jerry Moss Plaza at The Music Center. grandparkla.org
The city of Santa Clarita’s 4th of July celebrations kick off early in the morning with the annual Pancake Breakfast at 6:30 a.m., 38th Annual Independence Day Classic 10K at 7 a.m. and Fourth of July Parade at 9 a.m. The festivities culminate with the annual Spirit of America Fireworks Spectacular at 9:20 p.m. FREE. scvparade.com
Oceanfront Fireworks
Spend the holiday weekend on Catalina Island for a chance to catch two fireworks shows. Two Harbors will host their 36th Annual Children’s Festival with crafts and activities and the 18th Annual Dinghy Parade on July 2. On July 3 catch a spectacular firework show over Isthmus Cove. Avalon will host the USC Marching Band on July 3 and a Golf Cart Parade, BBQ dinner, live music and fireworks display on July 4. FREE. lovecatalina.com
Celebrate 4th of July with Marina del Rey’s 20-minute annual fireworks display. Make a dinner reservation at one of the waterfront restaurants, or view the show from anywhere in Marina del Rey. View from Burton Chance Park or Fisherman’s Village to enjoy music synchronized to the show. $13 – $20 parking. visitmdr.com
Redondo Beach hosts a few 4th of July festivities culminating in a fireworks show over the ocean. Celebrate Independence Day at Seaside Lagoon, a family-friendly favorite spot for swimming and playing in the sand. The Lagoon will be open 12 – 10 p.m. with the fireworks show at 9 p.m. Entrance fee is $6 for youth and $8 for adults. redondo.org
Or head over to the Riviera Village Fireworks & Festival, featuring food, beer and wine, live bands and 20-minute fireworks show at 9:20 p.m. $20 – $60; free for ages 12 and under. rivieravillagefireworks.com
Turn 4th of July weekend into a mini getaway with a stay at The Portofino Hotel where you can catch the fireworks display from your patio. Hotel rates vary. hotelportofino.com
A little further south, Huntington Beach hosts one of the largest Independence Day celebrations July 1-4. The event kicks off Friday, July 1 with the Pier Plaza Festival downtown, featuring over 70 food and craft vendors, live entertainment and carnival rides. The holiday weekend culminates on July 4 with the annual Surf City 5K, the Independence Day Parade along Main Street and, of course, a grand finale of fireworks display over the ocean. $25 – $40 for fireworks viewing. surfcityusa.com
