July 4th is almost here! While this years celebration of independence doesn’t fall on a weekend, there’s still plenty of fireworks to see. Per usual we have happily rounded up all the best places in and around L.A. to catch your sparkly show. So read on for a July 4th Edition of Out and About and ditch the at home sparklers and firework set.
Cinespia Presents E.T. + Fireworks
Location: Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90038
Enjoy the Steven Spielberg classic film E.T. with a special showing on the 4th of July at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Families will also be treated to a fireworks show! Pack a picnic or take advantage of the concession stands on-site. Gates open at 7:15 pm. Tickets are available online.
Grand Park
Location: 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Downtown’s free Fourth of July block party is back for another year, with live music and more than 40 food trucks kicking the day off at 3 p.m. before fireworks begin at 9 p.m.
Rose Bowl Stadium
Location: 1001 Rose Bowl Dr., Pasadena, CA 91103
For sheer patriotism, try the Rose Bowl’s annual AmericaFest event (somewhat ironically sponsored by Japanese automaker Honda). The all-day event features food, live music, motorcycle stunts, a Michael Jackson tribute, and, of course, fireworks. Ride the Gold Line and take the free shuttle to avoid the parking lot.
The Hollywood Bowl
Location: 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90068
At the Hollywood Bowl, you’ll get three chances to celebrate Independence Day. The venue is hosting evening performances on July 2, 3, and 4 followed by a fireworks display. This year, the LA Philharmonic will be joined by ’80s girl group The Go-Gos. If you’re not interested in the music, just head to the Hollywood Bowl Overlook for views of the fireworks.
The Queen Mary
Location: 1126 Queens Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90802
An English ocean liner might seem like an odd place to celebrate American independence, but those looking for an up-close view of a great fireworks show could do far worse than the Queen Mary’s Fourth of July festivities. Tickets start at $44. If that’s too much, the fireworks can be easily seen from nearby Alamitos Beach.
Griffith Observatory
Location: 2800 E Observatory Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027
Will it be a crowded mess? Of course! But the views are worth it. The DASH shuttle runs until 10 p.m., and parking is otherwise $4 per hour, but you could always ditch the car and hike there, too.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Universal Studios Hollywood lights up the night sky with its first-ever July 4th fireworks celebration, inviting guests to enjoy a spectacular aerial display that will take place in multiple locations within the theme park. As the spirit of Independence Day sweeps across the theme park, guests can toast the day by enjoying the theme park’s many popular rides and attractions, before the festive pyrotechnics extravaganza, synchronized to a score of Universal-themed music and patriotic favorites, beginning at 9:30pm.
ExpositionPark
Location: 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA
Exposition Park hosts a day of free family fun in honor of our country’s birthday. The fun begins at 11:00 am and features “live music, delectable food and activities for the entire family at this picnic style event.” Fireworks begin at dusk (about 9:00 pm). Parking information is available online; however, since parking is so limited families are encouraged to Go Metro.
Starlight Bowl
Location: 1249 Lockheed View Dr., Burbank, CA 91501
Enjoy a performance by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at the Starlight Bowl. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy has been making music for over 25 years and is ready to get you up and dancing on the 4th of July! Parking opens at 4:30 pm, gates open at 5:30 pm, and the concert begins at 6:30 pm. Buy your tickets early to ensure good seats for the musical show as well as the fireworks! Tickets are available online.
Warner Ranch Park
Location: 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Councilman Bob Blumenfield’s July 4th Fireworks Extravaganza is happening from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Enjoy a free concert and 15-minute fireworks display. Local restaurants and arts and crafts vendors will be selling their goods as well. The event is free, and parking fees serve as a donation to the Valley Cultural Foundation.