What to do on 4th of July in Los Angeles: Fireworks, Events & More

Time to start planning your Independence Day getaway! This year, spend 4th of July in LA and explore this bedazzling city. The glitz and glamour of Hollywood… the laid-back, boho vibes of Venice Beach… the festive energy of Santa Monica… there’s so much to love about this grand and glorious metropolis. Everything that you want for a nice holiday is here: nightlife, beaches, urban adventures, nature, art, and culture. 

Remember: July 4th falls on a Tuesday this 2023. So make sure to plan ahead and take Monday off work so you can have the whole weekend off. Read on and start crafting your 4th of July in Los Angeles weekend itinerary:

Where to watch 4th of July fireworks in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is one of the best places to celebrate 4th of July. From the Hollywood Bowl to Santa Monica Pier, the celebrations abound, and almost all of them finish with a spectacular fireworks display. Here are our top picks of 4th of July events in LA that you should consider going to for your vacation. 

July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular with The Beach Boys at the Hollywood Bowl

It’s going to be a rockin’ 4th of July at the Hollywood Bowl this year with The Beach Boys along with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra taking the stage with their chart-topping hits like “Surfin’ USA,” Wouldn’t It Be Nice, “Good Vibrations,” and more. It’s like stepping back into the golden days of California’s surf scene! Of course, it only gets better as the night ends with Hollywood Bowl’s legendary fireworks.

AmericaFest

Celebrate America’s birthday at America’s Stadium – Rose Bowl. One of the biggest 4th of July events in LA, AmericaFest will be celebrating its 97th year this 2023.  We are still waiting for the full details of AmericaFest 2023, but we will be sure to update you when it comes out. 

LA Dodgers on 4th of July

Baseball fans won’t want to miss the LA Dodgers on a home run 4th of July celebration at the iconic Dodger Stadium. Facing the Pittsburgh Pirates, catch the game at 6:10pm and stick around for the fireworks. 

4th of July at Universal Studios Hollywood

From July 2 to July 4, enjoy nightly fireworks shows, live music performances, themed decorations, and much more, all included in your theme park admission. Spend the day exploring all the rides and attractions, then cap off the night with fireworks. It will be crowded, so set your expectations right and wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be queuing up and walking around all day long, but it’s worth the experience. 

Marina del Rey 4th Of July Fireworks

Although a little far out if you’re staying around Hollywood on 4th of July weekend, Marina del Rey’s annual 4th of July fireworks extravaganza is one of LA’s best. If you go, you’ll want to leave early and just spend the day there. Explore the town or head to Fisherman’s Village and join their annual family-friendly 4th of July party. The fireworks show begins at 9:00 pm sharp. Find a cozy spot along the shoreline or a cozy waterside restaurant. Better yet, hop aboard a harbor cruise for a truly memorable experience. 

Pacific Palisades July 4th Celebration

Escape the bustling city and experience a quintessential small-town 4th of July celebration in the beautiful Pacific Palisades. This charming community comes alive with its annual July 4th festivities, showcasing the best of Americana traditions. The day kicks off with the Palisades Will Rogers 5K & 10K Run. Register here or just spectate and cheer on the participants. At 2pm, the parade will start along de la Paz featuring Kids on Bikes, Patriotic Pups, Palisades performing groups and other Palisades service organizations. At 6pm, head to Palisades Charter High School for food trucks and entertainment. The fireworks will start at 9pm.

Grand Park’s 4th of July Block Party 2023

Grand Park’s Block Party offers a unique twist this year. Instead of traditional fireworks, an incredible drone show will illuminate LA’s night sky. 

This family-friendly neighborhood party is taking place at Gloria Molina Grand Park and stretches across six city blocks. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic or buy scrumptious food selections from some of Los Angeles’s favorite gourmet food trucks.

The festivities begin at 4:00 p.m., featuring music performances on two stages. There will also be a digital playground offering interactive digital and Augmented Reality (AR) experiences, arts, crafts, and games.

Other things to do for 4th of July weekend in Los Angeles

Cinespia Presents Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure + Fireworks

Join Cinespia for Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure + Fireworks on July 1st at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.  Gates open at 7:15 pm, and the movie begins at 9 pm. Directed by the visionary Tim Burton, this 1985 classic will transport you to a crayon-colored adventure as you join Pee-Wee on his hilarious quest to find his beloved bike. Stick around after the movie for a spectacular firework show, and Cinespia DJ sets. There will also be concessions stand and grill and a Free Photobooth on-site. 

Anime Expo

From July 1st to July 4th at Los Angeles Convention Center, join anime enthusiasts from all over the world at Anime Expo, a four-day celebration of Japanese animation, manga, and cosplay. Immerse yourself in a sea of colorful costumes, attend panels and workshops with industry professionals, explore the bustling exhibition hall filled with merchandise, and connect with fellow fans. 

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical

Whether you like musicals or not, drag yourself to Pantages Theatre on July 1st or 2nd, and catch Tina – The Tina Turner Musical. Jukebox musicals are often a hit or miss, but Tina is absolutely phenomenal. Enjoy powerful vocals, dynamic choreography, and timeless hits like “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Proud Mary,” and “Simply the Best.”  Get your tickets here. 

Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure

Inject a little art and culture on your 4th of July holiday in LA and catch the groundbreaking works of Jean-Michel Basquiat at the highly anticipated exhibition, “Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure©,” at The Grand LA in Downtown Los Angeles. This captivating showcase delves into the artistic brilliance of Basquiat, a visionary and influential figure in the contemporary art world.