Fourth of July in LA Is Going Big This Year — Here’s Where to Be
It’s wildfire season in Southern California, and between the heat, the haze, and the constant churn of devastating headlines, it can feel strange — even hollow — to celebrate “freedom” in a country where so many still don’t have it. Here in Los Angeles, communities are navigating that tension in real time, especially in the wake of disasters like the recent Palisades Fire.
While some cities are opting out of traditional fireworks in favor of safer, more sustainable alternatives like drone shows, others are reimagining what gathering together on the Fourth of July can look like — centering local artists, cultural organizers, food vendors, and mutual aid efforts.
If you're feeling conflicted about the holiday, you're not alone. But if you’re still looking to spend time outside with your community, support local organizations, and enjoy some low-stakes summer joy, we’ve rounded up events across LA that keep those values in mind. From beachside concerts to mutual aid fundraisers, here’s where to find fireworks (and not), family-friendly activities, and neighborhood energy that goes beyond the red, white, and blue.
DARK RODEO
CHIRLA FUNDRAISER
If you’re looking to spend your Fourth of July in a way that’s more community-forward, Dark Rodeo is a great option. The goth-cowboy dance-rave meets benefit at Footsies in Highland Park, starting at 10 PM. All proceeds support CHIRLA, and attendees are encouraged to deck out in fringe, leather, mesh, and boots. DJs LoveKat, Nuves, and Milagro will bring dark disco, punk, and synth vibes under immersive lighting — expect a gritty, packed dance experience. Finx Fox-designed T-shirts are available to raise funds and awareness.
PACIFIC PALISADES
COMMUNITY CELEBRATION & DRONE SHOW
Pacific Palisades is rallying for its 78th Independence Day event after the wildfire earlier this year. The morning Will Rogers 5K and Kids Run moves to Venice, while the evening gathering at Paul Revere Charter Middle School features live music, kids’ entertainment, and over 20 food trucks. Around 9PM, a coordinated drone light show replaces fireworks under a safer, eco-conscious model. Attendance is limited to residents and invited guests — complimentary tickets will be released online. It’s a moment for community healing and celebration.
ROSE BOWL
FOODIELAND FESTIVAL & DRONE SHOW
From July 4–6, the iconic Rose Bowl hosts FoodieLand, featuring over 200 food and retail vendors starting at 3 PM (July 4) and 1 PM (July 5–6), with tickets around $8–$12 and free entry for kids under five. A drone light show replaces the traditional pyrotechnics, visible only inside the stadium on the 4th. It’s a curated, family-friendly food fest with immersive aerial art, and yes — you should bring your appetite and comfy shoes.
DODGER STADIUM
DODGERS VS. ASTROS (+ FIREWORKS)
On July 4 at 6:10PM, catch the Dodgers facing off against the Houston Astros — you know, the team with a little cheating history that still can’t quite shake the “bad apples” reputation. It’s the perfect chance to cheer on the home team and remind everyone who really runs baseball in LA. After the final out, stick around for fireworks over Chavez Ravine that’ll light up the night and maybe even overshadow those Astros’ antics. Grab a famous Dodger Dog, bring your loudest cheers, and enjoy a classic Dodgers summer tradition with some extra hometown pride.
DISNEYLAND
FIREWORKS OVER SLEEPING BEAUTY’S CASTLE
Disneyland’s classic Independence Day fireworks ignite over the castle at 9:35PM. Guests across park zones enjoy the spectacle, but Main Street U.S.A. and castle-front offer unbeatable views. The choreographed musiC and color presentation is nostalgic, emotional, and totally photo-worthy. It’s a quintessential Disney celebration — family fun, magic, and wow-factor vibes all in one.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD
NIGHTTIME FIREWORKS
Join Universal Studios for a 9PM fireworks show at Universal Plaza on July 4, kicked off by an early fife-and-drum performance. Spend the day on rides and in theme park ambiance, then claim your viewing spot near the plaza. It’s not Disneyland-scale, but it’s high-energy, contained, and fun. Ideal if you want theme-park excitement with a night-time spark.
KNOTT’S BERRY FARM
FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA
Knott’s Berry Farm keeps the fun rolling all day with Ghost Town experiences and music, then wraps up with a booming fireworks show at 9:30PM. Viewing near Calico Square or the Boardwalk carousel is ideal for the full effect. It’s carnival-meets-pyrotechnics—family-friendly, energetic, and charmingly SoCal. Stay past dark — the grand finale is worth it.
SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN
ALL-AMERICAN FIREWORKS WEEKEND
“All‑American Thrills” brings fireworks nightly at 9:15PM from July 4-6. After a day of coasters and adrenaline, gather at Full Throttle Plaza or near the entrance to watch the skies light up. It’s loud, fast, and festive — perfect for thrill-seekers who want more than just one night of celebration. Bonus: ride-and-fireworks combo for max adrenaline.
QUEEN MARY
FIREWORKS AT SEA
Cruise aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach starting at 3 PM on July 4 for live music, dancing, and oceanfront views. In the evening, fireworks are launched off, reflecting over the water. It’s nostalgic maritime charm combined with a spark-filled sky. It’s a scenic option and a bit off the usual LA path.
MARINA DEL REY
BEACHFRONT FIREWORKS
Marina del Rey lights up at 9PM with a 20-minute fireworks show visible from Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, Venice Pier, and Dockweiler Beach. Burton Chace and Village sync live music to the display, and boats drift nearby for marina ambiance. It’s breezy and relaxed — blankets, beach chairs, and good company encouraged. Great for a chill, scenic night by the water.
SOUTH PASADENA
FESTIVAL OF BALLOONS & FIREWORKS
South Pasadena’s beloved Festival of Balloons begins with a pancake breakfast and parade around 7 -11 AM, followed by games and food at Garfield Park. The evening continues at South Pasadena High School Stadium, with gates opening at 7PM, a Faultline concert from 7:30–8:30PM, and fireworks at 9PM. Tickets are $15 presale, $20 at the gate — kids under two enter free. It’s small-town charm, family-focus, and community all wrapped into one festive day.
GARDENA
ROWLEY PARK COMMINITY
Gardena goes full family-energy at Rowley Park from 5–10PM. with food trucks, carnival games, a Kids Zone, and a firework show starting around 9PM. Activities are free, vibrant, and packed with playful energy for all ages. It’s a no-fuss, fun evening that’s easy to walk into and enjoy. Great for parents, kids, and community hangs.
HUNTINGTON BEACH
PARADE, PIER, & FIREWORKS
Huntington Beach's celebration begins with a morning parade and 5K/Kids Run, then moves to beach bonfires and culminates in pier-front fireworks at 9PM. Drawing approximately 500,000 attendees, it’s loud, sandy high-vibe Americana. You can expect crowds, tons of energy, and quintessential beach-town freedom. Parking’s tricky, but the scene is iconic SoCal summer.
Photo — Hollywood Bowl
