News & Media
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of July 9, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.49%, up from 6.43% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.82%, up from 5.79% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Stay connected with what’s happening in the world of tech and media! From Meta Spark AI moves to Starlink deployments and more, we have you covered. Tune into the buzz below!
Meta is expanding access to its newest artificial intelligence model, Muse Spark, by introducing API availability for developers and businesses. Designed to power advanced reasoning, multimodal understanding, and agent-based workflows, the model is intended to support everything from customer service tools to content creation and productivity apps. Unlike earlier AI releases, Muse Spark is deeply integrated into Meta’s ecosystem and is expected to roll out across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, and Meta AI experiences. The API launch also gives developers an opportunity to build applications on the same technology that powers Meta’s latest AI assistant. As competition among AI providers intensifies, opening access to flagship models has become an important strategy for expanding developer ecosystems.
Character.AI is expanding beyond text conversations by introducing AI-generated microdramas designed for vertical video viewing. The new series transforms interactive AI characters into bite-sized scripted stories optimized for smartphones, reflecting the continued popularity of short-form content. Rather than simply chatting with virtual personalities, users can now watch them perform in serialized episodes that blend storytelling with generative AI. The initiative highlights how AI companies are increasingly exploring entertainment alongside traditional chatbot experiences. As audiences spend more time consuming vertical video, AI-powered storytelling is emerging as another frontier in digital media.
SpaceX is on pace to achieve its busiest year yet for Starlink satellite launches, continuing the rapid expansion of its global internet network. The company has significantly increased launch frequency, allowing thousands of additional satellites to reach orbit and improve coverage around the world. This aggressive deployment strategy strengthens Starlink’s position as the largest low-Earth orbit satellite internet provider while making it more difficult for competitors to catch up. Increased satellite density also helps improve network capacity and performance for existing customers. As demand for high-speed internet continues to grow in underserved regions, SpaceX is demonstrating just how quickly satellite infrastructure can scale.
Samsung is expected to showcase its newest foldable devices and wearable technology during its upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event. Reports suggest the company will unveil updated Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip smartphones alongside a redesigned Galaxy Watch lineup featuring improved health tracking and AI-powered features. Samsung is also rumored to be introducing a wider foldable design, signaling continued experimentation with smartphone form factors. The announcements reflect Samsung’s commitment to pushing foldable technology further into the mainstream while strengthening its connected device ecosystem. With competition increasing across the premium smartphone market, hardware innovation remains one of the company’s biggest differentiators.
Repair advocates have a new option with iFixit’s Megalodon Toolkit, a comprehensive repair kit designed for everything from smartphones and laptops to household appliances. The expanded toolkit includes a wider range of precision drivers, specialty bits, and repair tools aimed at helping consumers tackle increasingly complex fixes at home. The release aligns with the growing right-to-repair movement, which encourages manufacturers to make products easier to maintain instead of replacing them. As electronics become more expensive, many consumers are choosing to extend the lifespan of their devices through repair rather than purchasing new ones. The toolkit reflects a broader shift toward sustainability, self-service, and consumer ownership in technology.
As July breezes on by, the time to celebrate the weekend has arrived. From beach fests to music, movies, and more, we have you covered on summer fun! Check out what’s happening in your neck of the woods July 10 through July 12.
When: July 11
Where: Downtown LA
What: Celebrate 100 years of the iconic Los Angeles Central Library during a free, family-friendly centennial celebration in Downtown L.A. The day features live performances, hands-on art and bookmaking workshops, exhibits, crafts, and special guests, along with the unveiling of the world’s largest pop-up book by artist Daniel González. Highlights also include performances by the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, The Linda Lindas, the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, and L.A. Taiko Ichiza, plus a conversation with Susan Orlean and, of course, birthday cake.
When: July 11
Where: Griffith Park
What: Calling all potato lovers! This fry-filled festival at the Autry Museum of the American West celebrates every style of French fry imaginable, from shoestring and curly fries to loaded fries, waffle fries, potato wedges, and even dessert-inspired creations. Hosted by Bucket Listers and Street Food Cinema, the event features popular vendors like Dave’s Hot Chicken, Marathon Burger, Proudly Serving, Mr. Charlie’s, and The Churro Man, along with eating contests, games, shopping, and plenty of sweet treats.
When: July 10 – July 11
Where: The Hollywood Bowl | Hollywood
What: Step into the whimsical world of Wes Anderson during this special concert at the Hollywood Bowl, celebrating the unforgettable music of his films. Conducted by Thomas Wilkins and performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the evening features orchestral selections, beloved pop songs, and surprise guests inspired by favorites including The Royal Tenenbaums, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and more. It’s a must for film lovers and music fans alike.
When: Until August 22
Where: Westside
What: Spend a summer evening at the Getty Center during its popular Saturday Off the 405 concert series. Set against sweeping hilltop views, the free outdoor performances continue this season with sets from LEENALCHI, Horse Lords, and Laurel Halo. Arrive early to explore the Getty’s galleries, enjoy dinner with a view, and settle in for an unforgettable night of live music under the summer sky.
When: July 12
Where: Westwood
What: Spend a summer afternoon at the Hammer Museum with a unique blend of film, games, and community. The free event begins with a screening of Mahjong before the museum courtyard transforms into an interactive mahjong gathering hosted by Mahjong Mistress. Whether you’re learning the game for the first time or joining experienced players at the tables, this welcoming event offers a fun way to connect with fellow Angelenos while enjoying one of the city’s most popular social pastimes.
When: July 11
Where: Santa Monica
What: Celebrate the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the fifth annual Santa Monica Block Fest, where three blocks of the Third Street Promenade transform into a lively outdoor celebration. Watch the World Cup quarterfinals on big screens, enjoy live music and DJ sets throughout the evening, sip cocktails in the Entertainment Zone, and browse a night market featuring more than 20 local vendors, including Villa’s Tacos. With music, food, shopping, and soccer all in one place, it’s one of Santa Monica’s biggest summer parties.
When: July 11
Where: Velvet Martini Lounge | 4349 Tujunga Avenue
What: Enjoy an afternoon of classic big band jazz as Angela O’Neill and the Outrageous8 celebrate 10 years of swing during this special Second Saturday Jazz performance. Featuring an all-star lineup of Los Angeles musicians, the concert showcases timeless jazz standards, lively arrangements, and birthday tributes to several celebrated performers and composers. Expect an energetic afternoon of live music, exceptional musicianship, and vintage jazz club charm, with a $35 food and beverage minimum required by the venue.
When: July 10
Where: Moonlight Rollerway | Glendale
What: Roll into an afternoon of family-friendly fun at Moonlight Rollerway. Open to skaters of all ages and skill levels, this daytime session invites families and friends to lace up their skates, cruise around the rink, and enjoy great music in one of Southern California’s most iconic roller skating venues. Whether you’re learning for the first time or showing off your best moves, it’s a classic outing everyone can enjoy.
When: July 12
Where: Tansy | 2120 West Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank
What: Get creative during this hands-on succulent terrarium workshop, where participants of all ages can design and build their own miniature indoor garden. Using succulents, stones, moss, sand, soil, and decorative accents, you’ll create a personalized living centerpiece while learning the basics of terrarium design and plant care. With all materials provided and step-by-step instructions included, it’s a fun and relaxing activity for beginners, families, and plant lovers alike.
When: July 10
Where: Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, 40 Presidential Dr, Simi Valley
What: Enjoy an unforgettable summer evening at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library during its popular Sunset Dinner Series. The July 10 event features Fantastic Diamond, a high-energy tribute to Neil Diamond, paired with dinner, live entertainment, and access to the library’s exhibits, including the America 250 exhibition and the iconic Air Force One Pavilion. It’s a memorable night of music, history, and nostalgia in one of Ventura County’s most unique settings.
When: July 11
Where: Malibu Bluffs Park | 24250 CA-1, Malibu
What: Enjoy a family movie night under the stars at the City of Malibu’s CINEMALIBU summer film series at Malibu Bluffs Park. Before the July 11 screening of Kicking & Screaming, guests can enjoy food trucks, family activities, raffles, and special guests. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for a free outdoor movie experience as the sun sets over Malibu.
When: July 11 – July 12
Where: 550 E Surfside Dr, Port Hueneme
What: Celebrate summer at the annual Hueneme Beach Festival at Hueneme Beach Park. This free, family-friendly weekend event features live music across two stages, carnival rides, children’s activities, food and drinks, local vendors, a high school band competition, the Hueneme Beach Wrestling Tournament, and plenty of coastal fun. With free admission and parking, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic beach festival on the Ventura County coast.
Los Angeles dining is always in motion, and July brings another wave of openings worth adding to the calendar. From refined tasting menus and coastal Mexican seafood to Milan-inspired cocktails, Japanese charcoal cooking, and casual Valley favorites, the new restaurants in Los Angeles this month offer something for every kind of diner.
Whether you are planning a polished night out, a low-key brunch, or a group dinner with plenty to share, these standout spots capture the range and energy that keep LA’s restaurant scene endlessly exciting.
Location: 9575 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90035, United States
Chef Marcus Jernmark brings a seasonal California focus to Lielle, a 42-seat restaurant in Pico-Robertson. The four-course menu changes with the market, though the 36-hour proofed bread made with Rouge de Bordeaux wheat is already becoming a signature. Expect elegant dishes like aged squab, barbecued abalone with seaweed rice, and maitake mushroom sauce.
Location: 3321 South La Cienega Boulevard, STE G, Los Angeles, California 90016, United States
Picala marks Acme Hospitality’s Los Angeles debut with a warm West Adams restaurant shaped by California ingredients and Spanish influence. The menu includes pan con tomate, tortilla Española, shaved asparagus salad, aged prime rib-eye, and paella with chicken, chorizo, peppers, and aioli. It is one of the new restaurants in Los Angeles that feels especially suited for group dining.
Location: 6623 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90038, United States
Jacaranda brings chef Daniel Patterson’s fine dining experience into a more intimate 30-seat setting. The 10-course tasting menu leans heavily into vegetables and California sourcing, with dishes built around ingredients like artichoke flower, soft tofu, fresh seaweed, and Kauai prawns. Dessert comes from pastry chef Matt Tinder, with fruit-forward finishes that feel refined but not overly fussy.
Location: 1025 Abbot Kinney Boulevard, Venice, California 90291, United States
San Damián brings seafood-focused modern Mexican cooking to Venice from Enrique Olvera’s Casamata group. Chef Chuy Cervantes’s menu highlights mariscos such as Kumamoto oysters, local rockfish ceviche, Santa Barbara sea urchin, and Dungeness crab tostadas. With kanpachi al pastor, pescado asado, cocktails, wine, and beer, the restaurant feels right at home on Abbot Kinney.
Location: 10700 Tabor St, Los Angeles, California 90034
Pizzeria Sei has expanded from its tiny Pico-Robertson storefront into a larger Palms location with a full sit-down dining room. The menu features Neapolitan pizzas, fried montanara, and crispy Roman-style scrocchiarella. Starters like vodka sauce supplì, chicken croquettes, gem salad, and broccolini with bagna cauda round out the experience.
Location: 267 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90210, United States
New York’s bold Italian favorite Bad Roman has arrived in Beverly Hills. The maximalist menu includes roasted garlic babka, seafood towers, spicy Caesar salad, house-made pastas, branzino, chicken al limone, and caviar gnocchi. With cheeky design details and a playful sense of excess, it brings serious personality to the list of new restaurants in Los Angeles.
Location: 5901 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90038, United States
Pawn Shop turns a former collateral loan space into a sleek, high-energy sports bar. The menu balances casual favorites like wings and fries with upscale touches such as caviar service, kanpachi crudo, and a 40-ounce dry-aged tomahawk. Private suites make it a strong pick for groups who want dinner, drinks, and a game-day atmosphere.
Location: 3300 West Sunset Boulevard, #109-110, Los Angeles, California 90026, United States
Bar di Bello brings Milan-inspired style to Silver Lake’s Sunset Row. Cocktails like the Greenhouse Martini and Prima Donna pair with Italian and California wines, trofie alla Genovese, and a chicken cutlet finished with shallots, guanciale, and capers. It is sleek, polished, and ideal for a stylish neighborhood night out.
Location: 803 Traction Avenue, STE 140, Los Angeles, California 90013, United States
Bengara introduces Japanese binchotan charcoal cooking to the Arts District. The menu centers on slow, low-heat genshiyaki-style preparations, with dishes such as teuchi citrus soba, grilled rice skewers with uni, pork shoulder with fermented garlic, and kinako ice cream. It is one of the more distinctive new restaurants in Los Angeles for diners looking for smoke, subtlety, and craft.
Location: 871 East Mariposa Street, Altadena, California 91001, United States
Bar Betsy is an all-day cafe and wine bar from Tyler Wells, located next to his live-fire restaurant Betsy. Mornings bring coffee, puff pastries, and brioche breads, while the daytime menu moves into farmers market-inspired fare like crudo and focaccia sandwiches. It is easygoing, charming, and built for repeat visits.
Location: 12401 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, California 91604, United States
Highly Likely has brought its laid-back all-day cafe energy to Studio City. Breakfast runs until 4 p.m. with green chilaquiles and breakfast burritos, while lunch includes snapper tostadas, burgers, chicken Caesar wraps, and steak frites au poivre. The warm wood, tile, and soft lighting give the Valley location an easy neighborhood appeal.
Location: 4799 Commons Way, Suite I, Calabasas
Set to open July 14 at The Commons in Calabasas, Cheesesteaks by Matū brings a premium take on the Philly cheesesteak to a casual walk-up setting. The sandwich features 100% grass-fed First Light Farms Wagyu, a custom-seeded bun, Cooper Sharp cheese, grilled onions, and a long hot pepper. Served with house-made chips, it is a strong new option for Calabasas diners.
From Beverly Hills glamour to Altadena wine bars and Arts District fire cooking, the new restaurants in Los Angeles for July 2026 show just how wide the city’s dining scene can be. This month, every neighborhood seems to have a fresh reason to go out.
One of the greatest benefits of laying down roots in SoCal is our unbeatable Mediterranean climate, which truly shines during the summer months. What better way to take advantage of our balmy, breezy summer nights than by experiencing the magic of Los Angeles outdoor movies?
From entertaining family to planning an unforgettable evening under the stars, the local cinema scene has something for everyone. This season’s lineup of Los Angeles outdoor movies is packed with nostalgic classics, modern blockbusters, and unique community viewing experiences that span from downtown rooftops to the scenic coast.
If you are planning your late-summer calendar, here is a curated look at the best spots and upcoming screenings.
When it comes to Los Angeles outdoor movies, certain venues have achieved legendary status. These are the spots that offer a quintessential LA vibe, combining historic backdrops with cinematic masterpieces.
There is nothing quite like feeling the cool ocean breeze while watching a favorite film. Southern California’s coastal communities offer some of the most relaxed and scenic backdrops for cinema lovers.
You do not have to head into the city center or down to the coast to find fantastic cinematic experiences. The Valley and surrounding northern suburbs boast exceptional, family-friendly summer screenings.
No ultimate guide to Los Angeles outdoor movies would be complete without mentioning the world-famous Hollywood Bowl. For a truly elevated experience, the L.A. Phil hosts spectacular film nights where the movie scores are performed live by a world-class orchestra.
Owning a home in Southern California means investing in a lifestyle filled with culture, close-knit communities, and gorgeous year-round weather. Enjoying the vibrant scene of Los Angeles outdoor movies is just one of the many ways to maximize your summer. Experience what makes this region so spectacular!
This week’s economic news showed a labor market that is cooling but not collapsing. Inflation remains sticky, with PCE up 4.1% year-over-year and core PCE at 3.4%, which helps explain why bond yields and mortgage rates have increased. The good news for real estate is that oil has dropped back to about $69-$72 a barrel, and the 30-year fixed mortgage rate eased slightly to 6.43%.
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of July 2, 2026, were as follows: The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.43%, down from 6.49% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.79%, down from 5.84% last week. The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Job creation slowed in June – The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported that 57,000 new jobs were created in June, down from 172,000 new jobs in May. The unemployment rate ticked down to 4.2% from 4.3%, in March, April, and May. The labor force participation rate (The percentage of people age 16 or older working or looking for work) dropped to 61.5%, its lowest reading since March 2021. Average hourly wages increased 3.5% from one year ago, which remains below the most recent inflation reading of 4.2%.
Stock markets – The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed the week at 52,900.07, up 2% from 51,876.11 last week. It is up 10.1% year-to-date from 48,063.29 on December 31, 2025. The S&P 500 closed the week at 7,483.24, up 1.8% from 7,354.02 last week. The S&P is up 9.3% year-to-date from 6,845.50 on December 31, 2025. The Nasdaq closed the week at 25,832.67, up 2.1% from 25,297.62 last week. It is up 11.1% year-to-date from 23,241.99 on December 31, 2025.
U.S. Treasury Bonds – The 10-year treasury bond closed the week yielding 4.49%, up from 4.38% last week. The 30-year treasury bond yield ended the week at 4.98%, up from 4.87% last week. We watch bond yields because mortgage rates follow bond yields.
Wishing you a happy Independence Day as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday!
When it comes to selling a home in Southern California, first impressions are everything. The bright, relentless SoCal sun acts as a natural spotlight on your property’s exterior, meaning your choice of paint can either elevate your home’s equity or leave it looking dated.
According to a new 2026 Curb Appeal Report published by Thumbtack and shared by Martha Stewart Living, there is a massive nationwide shift in how homeowners approach their outdoor spaces.
Stark, cold minimalism is officially out. Instead, property owners are using warmer, more expressive palettes to inject personality and create a welcoming atmosphere.
For local buyers and sellers, alignment with these trending exterior paint colors is one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to maximize a property’s market value. Here is how to apply the latest national color insights to the unique architectural landscape of Southern California.
For the last several years, Southern California neighborhoods have been dominated by the modern farmhouse look: bright, blinding white stucco paired with jet-black trim. However, design experts note that homeowners are rapidly moving away from these high-contrast, stark combinations.
Instead, the trending exterior paint colors for home bodies are warm, creamy neutrals. Shades like Sherwin-Williams’ Greek Villa (a soft off-white with creamy undertones) and Natural Linen (a warm beige) are taking over. In Southern California, these tones are a dream for Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, and Mid-Century Modern homes. Warm off-whites absorb the intense local sunlight beautifully without causing the harsh glare that stark whites produce, giving your property an instantly luxurious, inviting feel.
Buyers in today’s real estate market are looking for homes that feel like personal sanctuaries. The report reveals that nearly a third of homeowners are using color to establish a specific restorative mood.
To achieve this vibe, look to earthy, nature-inspired tones for your trim, front doors, and shutter accents. Muted green-grays like Retreat and tranquil blue-greens like Rainwashed are highly favored choices. These shades coordinate flawlessly with SoCal’s native landscaping—clashing less with drought-tolerant succulents, olive trees, and sage, and blending seamlessly into coastal or hillside environments.
If you want your home to stand out in a competitive market, don’t be afraid of rich, moody accents. The 2026 data highlights a strong preference for sophisticated, deep colors on focal points like front doors or architectural alcoves.
Deep charcoal blacks like Iron Ore and rich navy blues like Naval offer a grounding effect without feeling as harsh as standard black. For a truly unique touch, consider mid-tone clay neutrals like Redend Point. Additionally, deep reds like Sommelier pay a beautiful homage to classic California terracotta. Likewise, both catch the eye of design-conscious buyers.
For potential sellers, updating your property with trending exterior paint colors is a strategic investment that directly translates to shorter days on the market and higher offers. For buyers, looking out for these warm, intentional color choices can lead you to homes designed with modern longevity in mind.
Mortgage rates – Every Thursday, Freddie Mac publishes interest rates based on a survey of mortgage lenders throughout the week. The Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Survey reported that mortgage rates for the most popular loan products as of July 2, 2026, were as follows:
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.43%, down from 6.49% last week. The 15-year fixed was 5.79%, down from 5.84% last week.
The graph below shows the trajectory of mortgage rates over the past year.
Dive into the top headlines of the week happening across the web in the world of media and technology. From a new Fujifilm Digital Cam to Amazon’s Starlink Rival and more, this week is filled with major news you want to know about!
Competition in satellite internet is accelerating as Amazon reaches an important turning point in its low-Earth orbit network ambitions. The company has now deployed enough satellites to begin offering continuous service across its initial coverage areas, putting Amazon Leo on track for a commercial launch later this year. Early customers can expect a rollout similar to Starlink’s first beta program, with speeds and reliability improving as additional satellites are added to the constellation. Although Amazon still has thousands of satellites left to launch before completing its planned network, this milestone represents meaningful progress toward challenging SpaceX’s dominance. As satellite internet continues to expand, increased competition could ultimately deliver broader coverage, faster innovation, and more affordable connectivity for consumers.
A new report suggests Apple is already laying the groundwork for its next wave of MacBook Pro and iPad Pro hardware. According to the latest roadmap, an entry-level MacBook Pro redesign is expected in 2027, while refreshed iPad Pro models will receive internal performance upgrades before then. In the meantime, Apple is reportedly preparing an M6-powered MacBook Pro that will largely retain the current industrial design. The staggered release schedule reflects Apple’s strategy of balancing steady annual improvements with larger design overhauls every few product cycles. For users considering an upgrade, the reports suggest Apple’s biggest hardware changes are still waiting just beyond the horizon.
Gaming continues moving toward a digital-first future as Microsoft explores new ways to bridge physical game collections with modern Xbox libraries. The company is reportedly developing features that recognize disc ownership while making it easier for players to access their purchases across consoles and accounts. Although physical games are not disappearing overnight, Microsoft’s long-term vision clearly centers on digital downloads, cloud gaming, and subscription services. The approach aims to preserve the value of existing collections while making ownership feel more seamless in an increasingly connected ecosystem. As gaming habits evolve, shelves of game cases are gradually giving way to libraries stored in the cloud.
Photography enthusiasts have another reason to embrace analog creativity with Fujifilm’s latest limited-edition camera release. The new Fujifilm QuickSnap Active Black & White brings monochrome film photography back into the spotlight, encouraging users to focus on composition rather than digital editing. Unlike smartphone cameras that rely heavily on computational photography, Fujifilm continues to celebrate the slower, more intentional process that has made film photography popular once again. The release reflects Fujifilm’s ongoing commitment to preserving analog photography while introducing younger generations to the unique aesthetic only film can produce. As interest in vintage cameras continues to grow, Fujifilm is proving that classic photography still has a meaningful place alongside today’s digital technology.
Learning with AI is becoming more visual as Google introduces AI Clips to NotebookLM. The new feature automatically transforms lengthy documents and research materials into short, digestible video summaries that make complex information easier to understand. Rather than reading through dozens of pages, users can quickly review key insights presented in a more engaging format. The update strengthens NotebookLM’s position as an AI-powered research assistant for students, educators, business professionals, and content creators alike. As generative AI continues to evolve, companies are placing greater emphasis on helping users absorb information faster, not simply produce more of it.
Privacy is taking center stage with WhatsApp’s long-awaited move toward usernames. The upcoming feature will allow users to connect without sharing their personal phone numbers, bringing the messaging platform closer to competitors like Telegram and Signal. In addition to improving privacy, usernames should make it easier to find and communicate with friends, creators, and businesses. Reports indicate that users will have an opportunity to reserve unique usernames before the wider rollout begins. As messaging apps continue evolving, giving users greater control over their identity has become just as important as adding new communication features.
Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday with July 4th Weekend 2026 fun. From firework celebrations to musical acts and more, the city is full of things to do for all. Check out the weekend round-up, July 4th edition, below!
When: July 4
Where: Downtown Los Angeles
What: Celebrate the 4th of July 2026 in Downtown Los Angeles at Gloria Molina Grand Park during one of the city’s largest free Independence Day celebrations. The family-friendly event features live music across multiple stages, food trucks, interactive art installations, and activities for all ages, culminating in a spectacular drone light show that illuminates the night sky in place of traditional fireworks. Easily accessible by Metro, it’s an exciting and eco-friendly way to celebrate the holiday in the heart of the city.
When: July 2 – July 4
Where: The Hollywood Bowl | Hollywood
What: Celebrate Independence Day with an unforgettable evening at the Hollywood Bowl, where The Beach Boys and special guest John Stamos join the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra for the venue’s annual Fourth of July spectacular. The patriotic concert is capped off each night with a dazzling fireworks display, making it one of Southern California’s most beloved holiday traditions. Pack a picnic, enjoy the live music, and celebrate America’s birthday under the stars.
When: July 4
Where: USC/Exposition Park
What: Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with a star-studded Fourth of July concert at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Hosted by Queen Latifah, the celebration features performances by The Smashing Pumpkins and Chris Stapleton, plus a festive Block Party Village with food, drinks, and family-friendly activities before the show. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks and drone display, while proceeds from ticket sales support Feeding America, making this a memorable and meaningful Independence Day celebration.
When: July 4
Where: Marina del Rey
What: Celebrate the Fourth of July with one of Southern California’s most scenic fireworks displays at Marina del Rey. Beginning at 9 p.m., the dazzling show lights up the marina and can be viewed from popular spots, including Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, Marina Beach, waterfront restaurants, hotels, and even boats on the water. Arrive early to secure parking and a great viewing spot for this beloved Independence Day tradition.
When: July 4
Where: Long Beach
What: Celebrate the Fourth of July aboard the historic Queen Mary during an all-day patriotic festival filled with live entertainment, family-friendly activities, games, dancing, food, and a WWII aircraft flyover. Guests can choose from a variety of themed parties throughout the ship before gathering for a spectacular fireworks finale over the Long Beach waterfront. Marking Queen Mary’s longest fireworks show ever, the 20-minute display is the perfect ending to one of Southern California’s most unique Independence Day celebrations.
When: Until July 19
Where: Westwood
What: Catch the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the Hammer Museum during its free World Cup watch parties. The museum will screen 16 men’s matches on big screens in a relaxed indoor-outdoor setting, creating a lively atmosphere for soccer fans. Between matches, explore the museum’s free exhibitions or grab a bite at the courtyard restaurant, making it an ideal destination for an afternoon of art, culture, and world-class fútbol.
When: July 3 – July 4
Where: Universal Studios Hollywood | Studio City
What: Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks show at Universal Studios Hollywood. The annual celebration features a choreographed pyrotechnic display set to patriotic favorites and iconic Universal theme music, along with festive décor and live entertainment throughout the park. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. and can be viewed from designated locations inside the park, making it an exciting way to cap off a day of rides, attractions, and Fourth of July fun.
When: July 4
Where: Burbank
What: Celebrate the Fourth of July in Burbank with an eco-friendly drone light show at McCambridge Park. Replacing the city’s traditional fireworks, the evening features live music and family-friendly festivities before more than 400 illuminated drones take to the sky at 9 p.m. Inspired by the nearby Starlight Bowl, this modern Independence Day celebration offers a memorable and sustainable way to enjoy the holiday.
When: Until July 19
Where: San Fernando Valley
What: Experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026 without stepping inside SoFi Stadium. Throughout the tournament, official fan zones and watch parties will pop up across Los Angeles County, from Venice and Downtown L.A. to Burbank and Pomona, giving fans the chance to watch matches on big screens and enjoy interactive soccer-themed experiences. With a mix of free and low-cost events, these community celebrations offer a fun way to soak up World Cup fever and cheer alongside fellow fans close to home.
When: July 4
Where: Woodland Hills
What: Celebrate the Fourth of July in the Valley at Warner Park’s annual Independence Day celebration in Woodland Hills. The evening features live music at Lou Bredlow Pavilion, local food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and a festive community atmosphere before the night ends with a 20-minute fireworks display. It’s a lively, family-friendly option for San Fernando Valley residents looking to enjoy holiday fun close to home.
When: July 3
Where: 4550 Tierra Rejada Road, Moorpark
What: Kick off Independence Day celebrations early at the City of Moorpark’s 3rd of July Fireworks Extravaganza at Arroyo Vista Community Park. This family-friendly event features live music, games, activities, food vendors, and entertainment throughout the afternoon before ending with a spectacular fireworks show after dark. It’s a festive way to celebrate the holiday weekend with the community while enjoying one of the area’s biggest pre-Fourth of July celebrations.
When: July 4
Where: Westlake Golf Course, Lakeview Canyon Road, Westlake Village
What: Celebrate Independence Day at the City of Westlake Village’s 11th Annual Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular. The event is held at the Westlake Village Golf Course. It features free community celebration, such as live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities, inflatable play areas, a putting contest, and beer and wine for purchase. The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display over the golf course beginning at approximately 9:10 p.m., making it one of the Conejo Valley’s favorite Fourth of July traditions.