While celebrations in our nation’s capital will likely garner the lion’s share of attention this holiday weekend, exciting options abound close to home, as well. Here is a guide to the top beach festivals, historic parades and uniquely California tributes taking place this year to toast independence, national pride and West Coast sunshine.
Marina del Rey
The annual Marina del Rey celebration will host a spectacular fireworks show on July 4 beginning at 9 p.m., with prime viewing from Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village. The show will be synchronized to music for an enhanced experience at both locations. Admission to this family-friendly event is free, and spectators are encouraged to arrive early to claim a spot.
The summer WaterBus open-air water taxi will also be operating on July 4 for $1 per person per ride throughout the harbor. Additionally, City Cruises will offer a special Fourth of July dinner and cocktail cruise, with live DJs, festive drinks, and gourmet bites. Visitmdr.com
Santa Monica
Santa Monica will host its 20th annual parade on July Fourth beginning at 9:30 a.m. on the fourth. This year, the parade also marks the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66. The celebration begins at the intersection of Pico Boulevard and Main Street, traveling through the neighborhood before concluding at the beach. Guests are invited to join the community, festively dressed in red, white, and-blue to celebrate America’s 250th and the world-famous route that ends in Santa Monica at the Pier. Stay and enjoy a meal or cocktails in one of the area’s top hotels on Ocean Avenue or restaurants along Main Street. Santamonica.com
South Bay
The spectacular Terranea Resort will host a Fourth of July extravaganza from 4 to 9 p.m. on its Catalina Lawn with live music by Kayln & The New Frontier, classic American BBQ (meals are complimentary for children under 6) and panoramic ocean views. Terranea.com
Ventura Harbor Village
In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Ventura Harbor Village will offer 250 minutes of live music from noon to 4:10 p.m. on both July 3 and July 4 at the seaside Promenade Stage at the waterfront. The entertainment showcases top local musicians performing an array of genres, including pop, rock, and coastal surf sounds. venturaharborvillage.com
Santa Barbara
Visitors can experience a full day of family-friendly festivities along the Santa Barbara waterfront and Sterns Wharf on July Fourth. The celebration includes free live music and dance performances, capped off with a 20-minute fireworks display. Many boat operators also offer Fourth of July cruises departing from the Santa Barbara Harbor for the unique experience of fireworks from the water. santabarbaraca.gov
Rancho La Patera & Stow House in Goleta
The Stow House Old-Fashioned Fourth of July celebration features activities for all ages, from face painting and tractor rides to a beer and wine bar. Rancho La Patera is the site of California’s first commercial lemon orchard and includes gorgeous grounds, including a short line train operated by the South Coast Railroad Museum. This is the kind of Fourth of July for families yearning for a taste of yesteryear. goletahistory.org
Oceanside
If your plans take you down the coast, the city of Oceanside kicks off festivities on July 3 with its annual fireworks and drone show. It takes place at El Corazon, home of the new Frontwave Arena, which also hosts an adults-only viewing party with a VIP seating area on its plaza, live music, elevated food, and drinks. On July 4, Oceanside’s beach resorts keep the celebration going with a vintage jet flyover and a rooftop party, capping off the festive holiday weekend.
