Photo by Elisha Terada, Unsplash
From fireworks to picnics to parties and more, here's how to celebrate the Fourth of July in Orange County for the perfect Independence Day.
1- Newport Beach Independence Day on the Back Bay
Head to the Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina for its fun-filled Independence Day on the Back Bay celebration. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to soak up the sun in the morning, stop by the Food Truck Feast for a bite of lunch and enjoy live music in the evening before a spectacular fireworks display.
2- Newport Peninsula Bike Parade and Community Festival
Beginning at 9AM, bring your furry friend over to the Balboa Peninsula for its Fourth of July bike and dog parade. Stroll down to Channel Place Park after for carnival games, and arts and crafts at the annual Community Festival.
3- Newport Beach Old Glory Boat Parade
Register your boat or take a walk down to Newport Harbor to watch participants sail around in the Old Glory Boat Parade. This year’s theme is America the Beautiful, and the most extravagant red, white and blue decorations will win a special prize.
4- Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade
To celebrate its 118th Fourth of July Parade, the city of Huntington Beach will offer amusing patriotic activities throughout the entire holiday weekend. Support local businesses at the Opening Night Block Party on June 30th, and get ready to stretch your legs for the Surf City 5K Run on Independence Day morning. After taking in the Main Street Parade, hit the beach for the beautiful Fireworks Over the Ocean show.
5- Dana Point Fireworks on the Water
Dress cozily for the picturesque Fireworks on the Water Cruise down Dana Point Harbor. A breathtaking view of the display over Doheny State Beach combined with accompanying music makes this boat ride an unbeatable experience.
6- Laguna Beach Fireworks
Pick the perfect spot in the sand to get comfortable for Laguna Beach’s vibrant Fourth of July fireworks. Watch the show light up the sky over the sparkling blue ocean.
7- Laguna Niguel Crown Valley Park
Spend Independence Day with the whole family at the Crown Valley Community Park in Laguna Niguel. Start the morning with a delicious pancake breakfast and relax by the pool before a night of live music and incredible fireworks at the Regional Park.
8- Yorba Linda 4th of July Spectacular
Savor the summer sunshine at Veterans Park during Yorba Linda’s Fourth of July Spectacular. With kid-friendly festivities, food vendors and a high-energy performance by the United Party Heroes, this celebration is a great way to ring in Independence Day.
9- Knott’s Berry Farm Fireworks
Family-friendly fun and activities are guaranteed for those who spend their Fourth of July at Knott’s Berry Farm. Enjoy the day on rides with a Western twist inspired by the return of Ghost Town Alive! but be sure to stay for the Knott’s Summer Nights party for a firework finale.
10- Irvine Pacific Symphony July 4 Spectacular: The Music of Queen
Revel in classic Queen hits at the ultimate celebration of one of the most iconic bands in music history. Lively band and vocalists Windborne join Pacific Symphony to play quintessential favorites such as “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Killer Queen” followed by a dazzling firework extravaganza.
11- Paséa Hotel & Spa
There’s no better place to find fun and festivities this Fourth of July—Huntington Beach offers local residents and visitors a parade, pier plaza festival, decoration contest, surf 5k walk and fireworks over the ocean. At the biggest Independence Day gathering, guests are guaranteed an authentic American celebration and tradition!
12- Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Watch the magic of Disney unravel in front of your eyes and take in the breathtaking pyrotechnics and visual effects at a spectacular firework showing! To the soundtrack of patriotic music, families and friends can enjoy a curated classic Fourth of July tradition in the company of all things Disney—Mickey Mouse, Olaf, Cinderella, Captain Hook and more!
13- Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge
Relax rooftop at an exclusive fire table top, or barside with cocktails and company, and admire the sweeping skyline views of Huntington Beach during the annual firework spectacular on the pier. The Offshore 9 Rooftop Lounge offers a special Sparkler In the Sky cocktail and decadent tasting options such as al pastor, short rib fries, or Champagne and a charcuterie board to share during the show.
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