Out & About: 10 Theme Parks to Visit

You’re likely to never run out of places to explore and things to do in Los Angeles. Thankfully, there is no shortage of theme parks and amusement parks. From 4D experiences and exhilarating water rides to record-breaking rollercoasters, there’s hardly a dull moment at one of California’s many amusement parks.

  1. Knott’s Berry Farm

Location: 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620

Sitting on what was once a berry farm and fruit stand, this 160-acre park opened its doors in the 1920s and is now one of the most visited amusement parks in North America. Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park is not too far away from Disneyland and boasts ten roller coasters in addition to western themed attractions and shows.

 

  1. Six Flags

Location: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355

Just an hour away from Los Angeles, Six Flags Magic Mountain sits on 262 acres of pure adrenaline.  Riders push their limits on 19 thrilling rollercoasters, including the fastest stand-up coaster in the world, Riddler’s Revenge, and the world’s longest hybrid rollercoaster, Twisted Colossus.

 

  1. Disneyland Park

Location: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

Children and adults alike are drawn to the Disney magic found at the original Disneyland Park in Anaheim. With world-class dining, year-round special events like Pixar Fest, and spectacular shows, there’s something the entire family will enjoy.

 

  1. Disneyland California Adventure Park

Location: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

Steps away from the entrance of Disneyland is its younger sister park, California Adventure. While Disneyland has the fireworks show, each night at California Adventure the lake comes to life for The World of Color, a spectacle of water and light.

 

  1. Santa Monica Pier

Location: 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Open since 1996, it includes a dozen rides and 15 midway games as well as a climbing wall, one of those bungee bounce jumping things and a food court. With rides and games galore and the beach by your side, it’s easy to understand why this Santa Monica amusement park is tops with visitors.

 

  1. Adventure City

Location: 1238 S. Beach Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92804

Enjoy fun, interactive children’s shows and so much more at Adventure City! Admission for a family of four is less than a ticket to a big park so you can enjoy all of our 17 rides, shows and attractions for one affordable price!

 

  1. Universal Studios

Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608

Universal Studios has an impressive mix attractions highlighting the production company’s most famous films. Visitors board a tram and view the actual sets and props from movies like JawsPsycho, and the hit TV series Desperate Housewives.

 

  1. California’s Great America

Location: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054

At California’s Great America, there are over 50 attractions from old-school carousels to high-speed rollercoasters. Thrills for every age are ready to rock your world and run you ragged. Get your walking shoes ready and practice your screaming, there’s a lot to cover on this adrenaline rush of an outing!

 

  1. Legoland

Location: 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Fans of the popular toy will appreciate a visit to the Legoland California Resort. Comprised of the Legoland theme park, aquarium, and waterpark, its fun for the whole family! Though most of the rides at the amusement park are aimed at younger children, adults will enjoy the impressive lego creations.

 

  1. SeaWorld

Location: 500 Sea World Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

Once the home of Shamu and his theatrical stadium shows, SeaWorld has been transitioning into more of an educational focus. The park has been adding more attractions and thrill rides to create an unforgettable experience for visitors and families.

Fun Things To Do in August!

While summer dwells on into September, August is really considered the end of the season. At least when it comes to the city’s best summer fun! That’s why you shouldn’t let the month pass you by without some necessary excitement! Read the list below of all the fun happening around town this month and make the most of your August adventures!!

LA Taco & Beer Festival returns on August 10 with unlimited tacos and craft beer from top restaurants around California and beyond. There will be live Lucha Libre wrestling every 30 minutes in addition to art, boutique vendors, games, food trucks, and DJ’s.

The Los Angeles Tea Festival brings together 45+ exhibitors, 20+ classes, and over 4,000 attendees to sip on quality tea and engage in in-depth discussions and presentations on teas from every region. Attendees will be able to try unique tea pairings and craft tea-infused cocktails and boba.

Beauty Con is a two-day beauty convention and featuring makeup tutorials,, fireside chats, tips on self-care, more than 150 top brands, 500 influencers and creators, plus plenty of Instagrammable photo opportunities.

Echo Park Rising celebrates the creativity, diversity, music and businesses of Echo Park with a four-day celebration featuring food, drink, and live music.

The world’s largest Korean culture convention stops in Los Angeles from August 15 to 18 (first year it’s been four days!) for a celebration of music, workshops, meet-and-greets, and more, plus two nights of concerts at Staples Center.

Pod Save America, a podcast hosted by former Obama staffers Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Tommy Vietor, and Dan Pfeiffer, is going on tour for a live conversation about politics, the press, and the challenges posed by the Trump presidency. The tour will feature guest co-host Jemele Hill and performances by Maggie Rogers, Amanda Seale, Best Coast & My Morning Jacket’s Jim James.

The LA Taco Festival aims to bring the city together to eat tacos and support a good cause – helping homeless youth succeed. Jovenes, a nonprofit working to help homeless youth ages 18 to 25, created the festival in 2009 as a way to bring people together, support youth, and enjoy tacos. Admission is free for all ages, with tacos available for purchase.

CicLAvia presents Meet the Hollywoods, an event where West Hollywood, Hollywood, and East Hollywood will be turned into a public recreational space for the day. Attendees can walk, bike, roll, or stroll though some of LA’s most iconic streets from the Hollywood Walk to Fame to West Hollywood’s rainbow crosswalk.

L.A. Food & Wine 2019 kicks off on Thursday, August 22 with a selection of special dinners at restaurants across the city. August 23-25 the focus shifts to the Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Airport for three days of themed-out events hosted by top chefs.

DTLA PROUD Festival 2019 returns to celebrate the culture, history, and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community in DTLA. There will be a lineup of local stage talent, community booths, art installations, retail vendors and more.

LATINAFest returns to bring thousands of women together for a one-day event. Featuring 100 Latina entrepreneurial vendors, talk sessions and panels with thought leaders, a cocktail garden, workshops, and more.

Head down to Roxanne’s Cocktail Lounge in Long Beach for a Tiki Swapmeet and social. The fun event will feature live tiki bands and DJs, games, and selected tiki vendors from across SoCal.

Twilight Concerts return on August 21. This will be a kick off of six consecutive Wednesdays of free music on the Santa Monica Pier.

The Leimert Park Village Book Fair comes to Baldwin Hills Crenshaw on August 24 for an all-day literary extravaganza.

Brick Fest Live, the #1 LEGO event in the U.S., returns to the Pasadena Convention Center! The two day fest features insane builds, hands-on activities, and sets to buy.

The L.A. County Fair returns to Pomona for a enormous assortment of activities, musical performances, food and beverage offerings, and more. The fair runs through September 23.

The L.A. Times hosts its 10th Annual The Taste celebrating Southern California’s culinary scene. Curated by the Times’ Food Staff, there will be unlimited tastings from regional restaurants, wine, beer, and cocktails, plus access to cooking demonstrations. -> More information.

This August The Cure headlines and curates the Pasadena Daydream Festival. The summer headline event features their favorite artists such as Pixies, Deftones, Mogwai, and Throwing Muses. The festival takes place Saturday, August 31 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Brookside at the Rose Bowl. -> More information

Golden Road Brewing hosts its third Made in LA Music and Arts Festival. Taking place on Labor Day Weekend, it’ll celebrate Los Angeles’ best art, music, food and California-inspired beer. The block party features live performances from Phantom Planet, Donavon Frankenreiter, Lematire, Pell, and Lauren Ruth Ward.


Check out this list above a number of free ongoing events series during August:

Out & About: Staycation Destinations

For those of us that don’t have the leisure of taking a week or two away for holiday, no worries! Since California is such a travel destination the choices for staycations are truly endless. So treat yourself to a weekend away with our selection of resorts perfect for a 3-day sabbatical. You’ve earned a couple days away this summer season!

Four Seasons, Westlake Village

Location: WESTLAKE VILLAGE

The five-star Four Seasons, Westlake Village, is an oasis right outside of Los Angeles and feels like a nice break from the city. The resort boasts a full range of activities like a round of golf, wine tastings, an arcade room, a yoga class on the grass, a nap in a hammock, massage, and to top it all off a Champagne brunch!

Terranea Resort

Location: PALOS VERDES

The stretch of California coastline occupied by Terranea is one of the most beautiful within Los Angeles County, with a scenic championship golf course and panoramic views. Terranea Resort proper includes hiking trails, bird-watching areas, and spots to watch dolphins swim by which guests are encouraged to explore. There’s an award-winning spa, eight dining concepts, and multiple outdoor activities.

PELICAN HILL RESORT

Location: Newport Beach

The Resort at Pelican Hill is situated on the coastline between Newport and Laguna Beach. The resort boasts panoramic views from its 204 bungalow guest rooms and 128 villas tucked into a terraced hillside.  The resort has recently been awarded a Forbes five-star rating as well as having been voted the “No. 1 Resort in the United States” by luxury travel magazine, Condè Nast Traveler. The high rating may be because of The Spa at Pelican Hill Resort which offers relaxing treatments, the ocean-view golf course and the fine-dining cuisine and other seasonal activities.

Montage Laguna Beach

Location: Laguna Beach

Set on 30 acres of cliffside property overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Montage Laguna Beach sets the standard for five-star California dreamin’. From lounging by the Mosaic Pool, spa treatments, custom residences, and three dining concepts, there’s no need to step off the grounds until check-out. Guests of the Montage Laguna Beach can enjoy hiking trails, surfing, or sailing within a matter of minutes.

Ritz Carlton – Laguna Niguel

Location: Laguna Beach

Set atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is modern luxury of relaxed coastal living. Savor regional cuisine against a backdrop of the ocean and pamper yourself in marine-inspired spa treatments. Come enjoy the view from this oceanfront resort.

La Quinta Resort

Location: Palm Springs

A golf mecca snugged up against the pink-hued Santa Rosa Mountains is La Quinta Resort. Best known for hosting the legendary PGA West Golf Club, the property boasts five championship courses. La Quinta is also ranked among the country’s top tennis resorts. It’s great for families and pets with hacienda-style rooms, a series of intimate swimming pools, and tranquil spa offers for you and the pooch with their much needed canine massages. The La Quinta area also has great hiking such as the Cove to Lake Trail or a strenuous tromp into spectacular desert, follow the 7.5-mile Boo Hoff Trail.

The Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

Location: Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is situated on 78 acres along the ocean bluffs of Gaviota Coast.  For total pampering in a dramatic oceanfront setting, the resort boasts a full-service spa, a 12,000-bottle wine cellar, Posh rooms with private balconies/ patios. Hotel staff can arrange guided tours into surrounding wine country, sailing excursions, horseback riding, or a round of golf on Sandpiper Golf Club. Another option is to do nothing more than watching the Pacific for passing dolphins and whales while lounging in the pool.

Four Seasons Santa Barbara

Location: Santa Barbara

Opened in 1927, Four Seasons Resort-The Biltmore Santa Barbara is a luxurious oceanfront property with manicured gardens. The property features Spanish Colonial design throughout with red roof tiles, elegant archways and wood-beamed ceilings. The accommodations here are the epitome of sophisticated California casual. Perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. On-site amenities include two restaurants, a poolside cafe and a lounge for tapas. There are also two swimming pools and a relaxing spa.

Rosewood Miramar Beach | Montecito

Location: Montecito

Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecito is the only five-star resort on the beach in Southern California, in Santa Barbara’s affluent Montecito community. The resort sits on the site of the former Miramar By The Sea Hotel, but newly constructed Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecito features 161 ultra-luxury guest-rooms, including Beachfront suites and multi-bedroom family bungalows. With a private beach right at your doorstep, enjoy early-morning yoga on the sand and sunset walks along the water; or step out from your bungalow to stroll through the gardens, lounge by the pools, and unwind at the spa and salon.

Monarch Beach Resort

Location: Dana Point

Monarch Beach Resort is a fabulous luxury choice for families. The top-end resort sits on a hill overlooking the beach in Dana Point, just above San Diego. The rooms and suites are spacious with a beach-house casual vibe and fully furnished balconies. On-site are seven restaurants serving a range of cuisine, from Mediterranean to modern Mexican/Californian fare. The resort has a spa with the usual assortment of treatments, a championship golf course, tennis courts, kids’ club, and a multi-level swimming pool, which features a family pool and an adults-only spa pool.

The Best Summer Pop-Ups in L.A.

There are so many fun activities to do during the summer in L.A. From trips to the beach to backyard BBQ’s the options are endless. One of our favorite things to do in town is just as limited as summer. Meaning you’d better hurry. That’s right, we’re talking about L.A.’s best summer Pop-Ups! With the craze of last years Museum of Ice Cream why would we not be? Check out the list below of all the short-term pop-ups in town! Your Instagram will thank you.

Location: TBD

is a Harry Potter-themed pop-up bar that is combining magic and mixology in a 90-minute experience. Upon entry, you’ll be given a robe and wand so that you can truly immerse yourself into Hogwarts as you experiment in the ancient art of “potion-making”. Admission to this enchanting adventure includes a tasty hot mead and a boozy potion you’ll be concocting; additional drinks and food can be purchased at the bar. Currently there’s only a waiting list to be notified when this event becomes available, but you can sign up there now.

Location: DTLA

Refinery29’s signature pop-up experience features 29 individual rooms curated around the theme of “Turn It Into Art.” Created through a collaboration between the digital media company and global artists, pop-up guests can expect to find a funhouse of exhibits that blend fashion, art, and pop culture. Though the LA location closed in December 2017, the pop-up is opening in San Francisco June 21-24, and will hopefully be back to LA after that!

Location: DTLA

The Museum of Ice Cream was the pop-up that started a revolution, the OG installation that drove the social media world wild with its photogenic pink exhibits, rooms filled with sprinkles and ice cream samples. The museum now has additional locations in San Francisco and Miami. The LA location is currently relocating but should be back up and running soon.

Location: Glendale

Sure, each of these pop-ups is made for Instagram—but this Glendale installation isn’t just about getting that perfect shot but getting the shot yourself! Everyone loves selfies, but most don’t realize that the history of the self-taken photo goes back 40,000 years. At this interactive museum, attendees will learn about the origin of the selfie through the lens of art, history, technology, and culture, all while taking some of their own.

Location: 468 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

An immersive journey through the Fashion House’s 160-year history of creative artistic collaborations. Discover over 180 items from Louis Vuitton’s archives and shop the 2nd floor pop-up shop for an exclusive product offering. The exhibit will also highlight the brand’s collaborations, featuring a variety of objects, accessories and ready-to-wear pieces by Marc Jacobs, Kim Jones, Nicolas Ghesquière, and Virgil Abloh. The Louis Vuitton X pop-up will be running until September 15th.

Location: 6751 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028

The Museum of Illusions has just announced their newest addition to their line-up of interactive installations, The Upside Down House. These exhibits feature fun rooms to explore and snap cool pictures.

Location: 8500 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048

Intended to break limitation of physical media, Museum of Dream Space provides the freedom to explore art inspired by designer, Yayoi Kusama. This immersive art experience is one of the first to display digital art in the United States.

Location: 400 S. Baldwin, Arcadia, CA 91007

This walk-through toyland will have families and young adults feel like they’re a kid again. Get lost in this instagrammable, emporium that contains over 24 large art installations weaved into a giant maze.

Location: 708 N. Croft Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90069

Founder Biubiu Xu created a shareable, multi-sensory experience for friends and family. This egg-themed pop-up is filled with multiple rooms of interactive experiences and immersive installations.

Location: 2020 E. 7th, Los Angeles, CA 90021

This pet-themed interactive aims to drive awareness for animal homelessness and empower pet adoption agencies. In addition to the photo-worthy art installations and immersive exhibits, PetPOP has partnered with animal organizations to host on-site adoptions for puppies in need.

LA Eats: Best Brunch Spots

The best part of summer on the weekend is finding the perfect brunch spot. With so many options in L.A, we decided to cut the culinary clutter. Read below for our pick of the best brunch spots to try throughout the city and treat yourself to a Mimosa…or two!

  1. Hippo – 5916 ½ N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042

For those with gluten-free diets, Hippo is the place to be! Enjoy meals from buttermilk hotcakes to pasta and fresh spaghetti, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu.

https://www.hipporestaurant.com/

  1. Otoño – 5715 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA 90042

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can indulge in tapas for brunch Saturdays and Sundays at Otoño. The Catalonia-inspired menu contains savory dishes like scrambled eggs with tetilla cheese and chives, pan de la casa and more!

https://www.otonorestaurant.com/

  1. Audrey at the Hammer – 10899 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90024

This brunch menu contains a nice balance of light and hearty dishes created by Chef Lisa Giffen. Meals include braised pork with beans for meat lovers and coconut chia bowls with passionfruit for non-meat lovers.

https://www.audreyatthehammer.com/

  1. Golden Bull Restaurant – 170 W. Channel Rd, Santa Monica, CA 90402

If you are looking for an ideal beach day in Malibu, then Golden Bull’s classic steakhouse is the perfect place for brunch! Their menu serves everything from buttermilk pancakes and ribeye steak hash to bottomless bright orange mimosas that go perfectly with each meal.

https://goldenbullsantamonica.com/

  1. Comfort LA Inglewood – 902 N. La Brea Ave., Inglewood, CA 90302

With just one item on the menu, Comfort LA makes it easy for you to select your meal. Their Brunch Special includes two waffles and five wings with the option to add additional syrup and waffles for a nominal fee.

https://www.eatcomfortla.com/

  1. Alta – 5359 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016

Chef Keith Corbin has something for everyone on his California-soul menu. Pair dishes like steak and eggs, cornmeal pancakes and avocado toast with bottomless mimosas for $20.

https://www.altaadams.com/

  1. Petty Cash Taqueria & Bar – 7360 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036

On Saturdays and Sundays, expect a Mexican-inflected fare from chefs Margarita and Walter Manke from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy some champurrado with chocolate and hazelnut with chilaquiles and black beans, a Mexican breakfast sandwich or several taco variations from their menu.

https://pettycashtaqueria.com/

  1. Alimento – 1710 Silver Lake Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026

After only serving dinner for five years, Alimento has expanded their menu to serve brunch! Try some of their crowd-pleasing sweets such as ricotta doughnut holes, breakfast sandwiches and French toast. You won’t be disappointed!

http://www.alimentola.com/

  1. Los Balcones Studio City – 11334 Moorpark St., Studio City, CA 91602

The Los Balcones team and chef Ricardo Zarate add an artful mash-up of traditional brunch classics with Peruvian flavors. Choose between Tiger prawns with scrambled eggs and a Chile relleno-stuffed breakfast burrito from their brunch menu.

https://losbalconesstudiocity.com/

  1. Here’s Looking At You – 3901 W. 6th, Los Angeles, CA 90020

This Koreatown hotspot has become one of the most innovative brunch spots in town. Chef Jonathan Whitener’s menu ranges from smoked salmon roe and herbs to cocktail offerings that are worth trying!

https://www.hereslookingatyoula.com/

Weekend Events: July 12-14

The weekend is upon us and there is no better time to venture out into the yonder of LA. We’re not talking about taking a hike through Malibu Creek…although that’s an option. We have a weekend round-up to get you out into the city and enjoying the best moments of summer. So skip the regular routine and discover your inner Angeleno!

Friday, July 12

Summer Movie Nights: The Karate Kid

Location: Brand Park, Mission Hills

Mark your calendars: summer movie nights are back in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Bring your family, friends, and pack a picnic for a movie night under the stars. All movie screenings begin at 7:30 PM. Popcorn will be provided.

Click here for more info.

Musical Theatre West presents DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID

Location: Carpenter Performing Arts Center, Long Beach

Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages.  With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken this fishy fable will capture your heart. Moreover, enjoy hit songs like “Under the Sea”, “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World”.  Certainly it will be entertainment for the whole family!

Click here for more info.

Cyndi Lauper

Location: The Hollywood Bowl

Her iconic voice, punk glamour, and infectious female strength catapulted her to stardom. Groundbreaking Grammy®, Emmy®, and Tony® Award–winning songwriter and performing artist Cyndi Lauper rocks the stage joined by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and conductor Thomas Wilkins.

Click here for more info.

Saturday, July 13

Hip Hop Fundamentals

Location: Skirball Cultural Center

Get down with Hip Hop Fundamentals, an award-winning team of diverse professional breakdancers dedicated to hip-hop education. As a result through their drive to inspire audiences and participants of all ages, they will present their The Principles of Hip Hop show. Don’t miss this exploration of hip-hop’s rich cultural history and how underserved inner-city youth have changed the world!

Click here for more info.

Queen Mary’s Rock the Queen

Location: The Queen Mary, Long Beach

Take to the Queen Mary this Saturday for an unforgettable flash back evening to the British Invasion of the 1960’s and 1980’s. Hope aboard aboard as some of SoCal’s best British tribute bands rock the night away. Most importantly, revel in performances from The Who Generation, Britain’s Finest, Arena, These Handsome Devils, and The Cured.

Click here for more info.

Paul McCartney: Freshen Up U.S. Tour

Location: Dodger Stadium

Needing no introduction, don’t miss Sir Paul McCartney at the home of the boys in blue this weekend only! Debuting a brand new production, is an unforgettable experience from every seat in the house. The Beatles frontman will showcase a selection of the best songs ever written or performed Paul McCartney. Moreover is a show that promises a once in a lifetime evening transcending and elevating the potential of live music.

Click here for more info.

Sunday, July 14

California Philharmonic Presents ‘Bastille Day’

Location: Walt Disney Concert Hall

Francophiles will cheer “Vive la France” when the California Philharmonic Orchestra presents its “Bastille Day”. A symphony of french sound, the Bastille Day concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall is sure to be magnifique!

Click here for more info.

Kids Summer Movie Series: Charlie & The Chocolate Factory

Location: The Wiltern, Los Angeles

Enjoy a special screening of the Tim Burton reimagined Roald Dahl tale, Charlie & The Chocolate Factory! Watch the story of young Charlie Bucket as he wins a fantastical opportunity to enter the magical but mysterious factory of candy maker Willy Wonka. Come early and upgrade to our *Kid Party prior to screening! There will be photo opps, face painting, bounce house, carnival games & more fun surprises!

Click here for more info.

Festival of Arts Family Art Day

Location: Festival of Arts Grounds

“Family Art Day” at the Festival of Arts is the most fun-filled, art-filled and enchantment-filled day of the entire summer for families! Enjoy a special performance by the award-winning Le PeTiT CiRqUe, America’s only all-kid cirque company. Limited space available. Children 5 and under receive free admission all summer long to the Festival of Arts.

Click here for more info.

LA Eats: July 4th Recipes

We know what you’re thinking. It’s not quite L.A. Eats if you have to DIY. Here in the city of stars, if you’re not partaking in the usual revelry, an at home fete is the most ideal. We know there are plenty of day parties from The Bungalow to The W. But if you prefer your own Independence Day celebration, we have you covered. Not on your own attempt at bunting (good luck), but as the Chef de Cuisine of your home. So read on for our round-up of what to dish out July 4th, you’ve got a week to prep your red, white, and blue spread.

 

  • Gina’s Orzo Salad

If you are looking for a quick and easy centerpiece for your picnic this summer, you might want to try Gina’s Orzo Salad recipe!

Click here for the recipe.

  • Easy Peach Cobbler

Those who love peach cobbler but don’t know how to make it will fall in love with this simple recipe!

Click here for the recipe.

  • American Flag Caprese Salad

Create an American flag centerpiece using fresh mozzarella, purple potatoes and tomatoes.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Grilled Corn with Lime Butter

If you enjoy corn from places like the LA County Fair or Knott’s Berry Farm, then you’ll love this delicious recipe that is simple to create.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Old Bay Shrimp

You’ll want to try this five-minute flavorful shrimp seasoning recipe that allows you to explore herbs and spices!

Click here for the recipe.

  •  Citrus-Spangled Spritzer

Backyard barbecues just got a star-spangled makeover with this patriotic citrus spritzer. Vibrant red, white and blue hues make it stand out from other 4th of July cocktails. Simply layer ingredients for a striking drink that will please any crowd, even in summer heat.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Red, White and Blue Wine Spritzer

White wine spritzers are a classic summer beverage for a reason. Add some blue and red and you’ve got yourself a killer cocktail for America’s birthday.

Click here for the recipe.

  •  Snow Cone Drinks

This drink is equal parts nostalgia and party-in-a-glass. Slightly on the sweeter side, we wouldn’t have too many or you made need an extra day off on the 5th.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Popsicle Cocktails

Stock up on popsicles and bubbly so you can enjoy this effortless, celebratory drink at a moment’s notice.

Click here for the recipe.

  • Firecracker Jell-O Cups

Who knew patriotism could fit into such a small cup? Add some vodka to each layer to turn the kid-friendly snack into a grown-ups-only shot.

Click here for the recipe.

Out and About: July 4 Fireworks Celebrations

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

More info.

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.

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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.

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