Boom! Fourth of July Plans Solved With These Spectacular Displays
Everyone knows that the Fourth of July in Orange County is a blast (no pun intended). There are few things more beautiful than watching the fireworks cascade over the Pacific Ocean with palm trees standing tall in the background. If you don’t have plans yet, or can’t figure out what to do this year, then take a look at these options to guarantee you have top-notch plans for this year’s Independence Day.
1 | Disneyland
Come one, come all! Disneyland is the place to be this Fourth of July. While fireworks are nothing new for Disneyland, experiencing the special show on the Fourth of July is a sight to behold. At 9:30 p.m., the skies will sparkle and you’ll be thrilled to be celebrating the land of the free and the home of the brave with Mickey and Minnie.
2 | San Clemente Pier
San Clemente’s annual firework show begins at sundown, around 9 p.m., at the San Clemente Pier. Due to limited parking and seating in the pier area, it’s recommended to arrive early and utilize the San Clemente Trolley and remote parking options for a smooth experience. Witness the captivating display of colors and lights as the night sky comes alive.
3 | Huntington Beach Pier
The largest Independence Day Celebration west of the Mississippi? It’s true! Head to Huntington Beach to celebrate all weekend long. 118 years of tradition, Huntington Beach now welcomes over 500,000 attendees over five days of programming. At 9 p.m. on July 4th, don’t miss fireworks over the ocean—and get your tickets online for reserved pier seating.
4 | Back Bay, Newport Beach
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort and Marina sets the stage for an unforgettable Fourth of July holiday weekend. Celebrate the spirit of Independence Day on the scenic Back Bay, where a weekend brimming with family-friendly fun awaits. Enjoy exciting watersports, delightful Movies on the Beach and captivating live entertainment with Tunes at the Dunes. Concluding the festivities on July Fourth, join in for one of SoCal’s grandest fireworks shows at 9 p.m., co-sponsored by the esteemed City of Newport Beach.
5 | Dana Point Harbor
Prepare to be awe-struck as the Condor Squadron takes flight over Dana Point prior to the magnificent fireworks display. From 5:50 p.m. to 5:55 p.m., these legendary WWII North American AT-6 airplanes will grace the skies, adding a touch of nostalgia to this cherished event. At 9 p.m. the fireworks show begins—the fireworks are shot from a barge on the water, located off the coastline of Doheny State Beach.
6 | San Juan Capistrano
Celebrate Fourth of July in San Juan Capistrano with a community summer carnival and fireworks in the evening. Gates open at 12 p.m. at the San Juan Capistrano Sports Park for an unforgettable day of fun and entertainment. Experience live music from 6:00 p.m. onwards, along with old-fashioned picnic games, delectable food vendors and an enticing beer and wine garden. Don’t miss the grand finale at 9 p.m. as spectacular fireworks light up the sky. The festivities continue with a thrilling carnival featuring over 20 rides for all ages, running from July 1 to July 4.
7 | Costa Mesa
Join in on a sensational celebration of our nation’s independence at OC Fair & Event Center on July 3 in Costa Mesa. Bring your own picnic, lawn chairs and blankets to create cherished memories with your loved ones. Gates open at 4 p.m., allowing ample time to explore and enjoy the festivities from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Indulge in delicious food and refreshing drinks available for purchase throughout the event. Don’t miss the exhilarating fireworks show at 9:30 p.m., illuminating the night sky with a dazzling display. Best of all, admission and parking are entirely free, ensuring a spectacular and budget-friendly experience for all.
8 | Laguna Beach
Fireworks in Laguna Beach will be taking off from Monument Point at Heisler Park at 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July. Watch as the fireworks light up the ocean and this seaside town. Although traffic is expected after the show, it’s well worth spending the day in Laguna.
9 | San Clemente
Independence Day celebrations are taking place in San Clemente with fireworks shooting off from the iconic San Clemente Pier, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will light up the night sky on July Fourth at 9 p.m. The fireworks show, expected to last 20 minutes, promises to be a breathtaking display of colors and lights, so make sure to mark your calendars and find the perfect spot to enjoy this dazzling extravaganza.
Marie’s love of writing spans various forms, including short stories and screenplays. She majored in Film and Media Studies with an emphasis in screenwriting from the University of California, Irvine, and has a degree in Merchandise Marketing from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Marie began her journey with LOCALE Magazine as a writer, and has recently begun a new chapter as Web Editor. She is beyond thrilled to be moving forward with this amazing publication. When she is not writing or studying fashion trends, Marie can be found in the gym or on the water on her paddle board. Oh, and she’s a mean cook, too. Instagram @marie.charisse
This article is brought to you by one of the many talented writers associated with Locale Magazine! We are a group of locals (whether born and raised or transplanted) who love this county we now call home!
