Living (or visiting) a bustling city like Los Angeles means you’re in for some spectacular fireworks this 4th of July 2024! If you’re searching for the best spots to witness these dazzling firework displays, we’ve got you covered. Whether you're after family-friendly activities followed by mesmerizing fireworks or the classic picnic-under-the-stars experience, LA offers a variety of events to make your Independence Day unforgettable. Here’s your guide to the best fireworks spectacles in the city. (For more information about Southern California check out our guides for best weekend getaways, beaches, LA hotels, and Palm Spring Hotels).

Where can I watch July 4 fireworks in Los Angeles?

You can watch the 4th of July fireworks at several top locations in LA, including Marina del Rey, the Hollywood Bowl, Gloria Molina Grand Park, Rose Bowl Stadium, and Huntington Beach Pier Plaza Festival.

Does Santa Monica Pier do fireworks on 4th of July?

The Santa Monica Pier does not host its own fireworks display on the 4th of July. However, there are many other nearby locations such as Marina del Rey and the Hollywood Bowl where you can enjoy spectacular fireworks shows.

What to do in LA on July 4th?

On July 4th in LA, you can enjoy a variety of events such as the Marina del Rey fireworks show with a pre-show concert, the Hollywood Bowl's Fireworks Spectacular with live music by Harry Connick, Jr., Gloria Molina Grand Park's 4th of July Block Party with live entertainment and a 3-D drone show, and many more!

What happened to the Rose Bowl Americafest?

Rose Bowl Americafest, once the biggest Independence Day celebration west of the Mississippi, was canceled in 2023 due to budget cuts. In its place, the Rose Bowl Stadium now hosts an exciting event featuring a match between the L.A. Galaxy and LAFC on July 4th, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.

5 Best Places to Watch Fireworks in Los Angeles this Fourth

1. Marina del Rey: Waterfront Wonder

Marina del Rey 4th of July Fireworks in LA
Celebrate Independence Day in Los Angeles at Marina del Rey with a spectacular waterfront fireworks show on July 4, 2024! The evening starts with a lively concert at Burton Chace Park, leading up to the dazzling fireworks at 9 PM. Enjoy stunning reflections on the water, perfect for families, couples, and friends. Arrive early around 1 PM for prime spots or book a dinner cruise for a unique view. Best viewing locations include Burton Chace Park, Fisherman’s Village, and Venice Pier. Parking is available from $11, with beach shuttle and water bus services.

2. Hollywood Bowl: Fireworks Spectacular

Hollywood Bowl 4th of July Fireworks in LA
For a unique blend of music and fireworks, head to the Hollywood Bowl for their annual 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular. This year, enjoy live performances by the legendary Harry Connick, Jr., accompanied by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and the LA Philharmonic conducted by Thomas Wilkins. The evening culminates in a breathtaking fireworks display lighting up the sky above this iconic venue. Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy the show starting at 7:30 pm (tickets start at $15 for seats in the back), then stick around for the dazzling post-concert fireworks. Celebrate this 4th of July with live music, dazzling fireworks, and an unforgettable atmosphere at the Hollywood Bowl.

3. Gloria Molina Grand Park's 4th of July Block Party

Gloria Molina Grand Park's 4th of July Fireworks in LA
Experience an urban 4th of July extravaganza at Gloria Molina Grand Park's 4th of July Block Party! This free event is perfect for families and friends, featuring live music, arts activities, sports games, dance, and dozens of LA’s favorite food trucks. The festivities begin in the afternoon, with DJs playing genres from hip-hop to reggaeton, funk, and more. Highlights include a 3-D drone show, a 75-foot Ferris wheel, and an amusement park zone. The spectacular 3-D drone display starts at 9 PM, illuminating the downtown skyline. Arrive early to secure a good spot at this popular celebration of community, resilience, and joy shared among LA.

4. Rose Bowl Stadium: L.A Galaxy v. LAFC

Rosebowl 4th of July Fireworks in LA
Celebrate the 4th of July with an exciting sports and fireworks combo at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena. While AmericaFest, once the biggest Independence Day celebration west of the Mississippi, was canceled in 2023 due to budget cuts, this thrilling event has taken its place. For a second year in a row, the L.A. Galaxy and LAFC will face off on July 4, 2024, at 7:30 PM, followed by a spectacular fireworks display around 10 PM. Soccer fans and patriots alike will enjoy the match and the post-game fireworks, shot off from the adjacent Brookside Golf Course. With 70,000-plus attendees expected, the atmosphere will be electric. If you're not attending the match, you can still catch the fireworks from areas around the Arroyo, the Colorado Street Bridge, and rooftops in Old Pasadena.

5. Huntington Beach: Pier Plaza Festival

Huntington Beach Pier 4th of July Fireworks in LA
Just a bit away from LA is the legendary Huntington Beach Pier Plaza Festival. Start your independence day with the annual 5K Surf City Run and fitness expo in the morning, followed by the iconic parade at 10 AM featuring local businesses, classic cars, and the Huntington Beach High School cheerleaders. Enjoy live entertainment, family activities, and all-American eats at the four-day Pier Plaza Festival. The highlight is the spectacular fireworks display over the ocean at 9 PM, ending in an epic finale. With over 500,000 attendees, this 4th of July celebration offers an unforgettable Independence Day experience. All beach viewing is open to the public, with VIP seating available for purchase.

Last Thoughts: 4th of July in LA

No matter which 4th of July fireworks display you choose in Los Angeles, you're in for an unforgettable time! Bring blankets if you're watching the fireworks from the beach, find the best viewing spots early, and get ready for a fantastic celebration. Whether you're with family or friends, it's time to show your patriotic spirit and enjoy the festivities on the 4th of July 2024!

Looking for the Best Places for 4th of July Fireworks?

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4th of July Fireworks in LA Experiencegift
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