7 Ways to Celebrate the Fourth of July in Los Angeles

by: Yamillah Hurtado

Independence Day is a widely celebrated holiday among Americans. If you’re anything like me, it’s the perfect excuse to gather around with loved ones for a barbecue and enjoy a night of music and fireworks. But, if you’re looking for a new way to celebrate the 4th of July, NOW Magazine is here to show you a few events hosted in Los Angeles.

1. Movies and a View

Melrose Rooftop Theatre is celebrating the 4th of July in no other way than screening Independence Day. The 1996 film is directed by Roland Emmerich and stars Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum. The action-adventure sci-fi takes us into a world in which aliens are trying to invade the Earth and mankind must overcome. Cinephiles, make your way to West Hollywood for this cult classic and a spectacular view of the Hollywood Hills. Tickets are $25 a person, or you can opt for dinner and a movie for just $59. 

2. Surfin’ U.S.A. 

This year, the Beach Boys are headlining the Hollywood Bowl’s annual July 4th Spectacular. People of all ages will be singing “Inside, outside, U.S.A.” at the top of their lungs to America’s favorite boys. The gates of the venue will open at 5:30 p.m., the perfect time to have a picnic with friends and family under the summer sun as you wait for the show to begin at 7:30 p.m. The beloved rock band will take the stage with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra as a firework display lights up the sky. 

3. DTLA Block Party 

Go to Downtown L.A. for the city’s biggest Fourth of July party, and it’s free. Grand Park is hosting its annual 4th of July Block Party from 4-9:30 p.m. Gather around with fellow Angelenos for a night of celebration and dancing. Guests can dance the night away during DJ sets that honor hip-hop’s 50th anniversary while enjoying delicious food from a variety of food trucks offering anything from tacos to barbecue. And, instead of your traditional firework show, the sky will be lit by a drone show. You won’t want to miss this!

4. Rollercoasters & Fireworks

Summer is the season of amusement parks, so what better way to celebrate the 4th of July than at Six Flags Magic Mountain? The thrill capital of the world will be hosting its annual Coca-Cola July 4th Fest. Spend the day riding world-class roller coasters, eating funnel cake, and creating fun-filled memories. At night, fireworks will illuminate the park starting at 9 p.m. The best view of this amazing show is at the Full Throttle Plaza where there will also be a DJ and photo booth.

5. BBQ at the Aquarium

If you’re looking for an unconventional way to celebrate the 4th of July, look no further. The Aquarium of the Pacific is hosting a holiday barbecue buffet from 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. overlooking the stunning Rainbow Harbor. Tickets are $97 per adult and $75 per child and include all-day Aquarium admission. For the special event, the Aquarium will open its doors until 10 p.m. so guests can get a late-night view of all the colorful marine life. 

6. Hollywood Pool Party

Head over to Hotel Roosevelt for a dip in the pool. The iconic Hollywood hotel is hosting a pool party at their Tropicana Pool from 1-7:00 p.m. There will be DJs spinning a mix of house, disco, and indie music. Everyone 21+  can enjoy a day of sunbathing, tanning, dancing, and fun at no cost.

7. Light Up the Night Sky 

For a good old firework show, there is no better place than to head over to Marina Del Rey for their 4th of July fireworks. This is a show that attracts Angelenos from every corner of the county. The fireworks are synchronized with music, start at 9 p.m., and go on for 20 minutes. There are plenty of ways to take in the spectacular show in the sky such as having dinner at one of the restaurants on the waterfront, going out into the water on a boat, or having a picnic at Chace Park.

Whatever you decide to do this 4th of July, have fun and be safe!