Valencia Celebrate Fourth of July in Southern California with a bang at Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S, both July 4 and July 5, at 9:15 p.m. at Magic Mountain. Experience one of L.A.’s most dazzling fireworks displays, synchronized to patriotic music and bursting with color and sound. Whether you are in Los Angeles, Orange County or San Diego, we have compiled a selection of some of the best places to catch the fireworks and celebrate your independence here in SoCal. Fourth of July preparations are in full swing throughout Southern California. Cities all around Los Angeles county are set to host activities and fireworks shows in celebration of America’s Celebrate an all-American 4th of July aboard The Queen Mary and enjoy a fun-filled day of good food, great entertainment, family games, activities, a World War II aircraft flyover, and a Whether you want to spend a low-key day on the water or ogle impressive fireworks displays, California offers a Fourth of July party for you. This year you can choose just about any region or town in the Golden State and you’ll find a good celebration. From big city blowouts to small town charm, here are some of the most festive places in Southern California to celebrate the 4th of July. Looking for the best places to watch Fourth of July fireworks or drone shows in Southern California without spending a dime? This 2025 guide reveals 24 free, hidden, and crowd-friendly viewing spots across Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County. Looking for the best places to watch 4th of July fireworks in Long Beach in 2025? Whether you’re a resident or just visiting for the weekend, Long Beach offers some of the most exciting and scenic fireworks shows in Southern California. Best things to do Fourth of July weekend in LA and Southern California: July 4 - 6 By Laura Hertzfeld Published Jul 3, 2025 8:08 AM Regardless of where you are and how you’re celebrating, the Fourth of July in California is fun, fun, fun. Discover where to celebrate now. Best Places to See Fireworks in California: A Spectacular Guide Celebrating Fourth of July in California The Fourth of July is a time for vibrant fireworks, festive parades, and joyous celebrations across California. You can embrace the spirit of Independence Day and enjoy some of the most breathtaking fireworks displays the Golden State has to Things to do this weekend: Celebrate Fourth of July across Southern California Feel that red, white, and blue spirit as fireworks and patriotic displays movingly abound around town. 15 free fun things to do in Southern California in July Get out and be entertained for free. But here’s a list of 16 places where you can still see ooh and aah free. The shows generally start at dark, around 9 p.m. (And note that they’re not always on July 4!) ALSO SEE: July 4th Communities across Northern California are gearing up for an action-packed Fourth of July, featuring everything from dazzling fireworks shows to parades, festivals, and classic rodeo competitions. Here’s our favorite Southern California and Los Angeles Independence Day celebrations for 2025: 1. Grand Park’s Fourth of July Block Party (Downtown Los Angeles) If you’re near downtown Los Angeles, be sure to check out this massive (and free!) Fourth of July block party at Grand Park. Whether fireworks are legal depends on where you live in Southern California, so save yourself the hassle — and potentially, the trouble — from hosting your own show and enjoy striking Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 4th of July Fireworks in California Q: Where can I watch 4th of July fireworks for free in California? A: Many cities in California offer free public fireworks shows. Top spots include Marina del Rey, San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf, Long Beach Shoreline Village, and Cal Expo in Sacramento. The Fourth of July is approaching and there will be plenty of ways to celebrate the nation’s birthday. There are events planned all over the area that include drone shows, festivals, even Whether you’re looking for the best fireworks displays or you want to get away from it all, there’s a 4th of July destination in California for you this summer. Read on for my favorite spots. I’ve included a map, too.
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