There are tons of events and July 4th fireworks in Orange County this year. These are not only the best places to see fireworks on Independence Day, they’re the best places to spend all day long enjoying good music, fun, games and more. Each of these firework shows comes with a day (or more) of patriotic partying. We’ve included everything you need to know like costs, parking and insider info for each event.
San Clemente
Where: Municipal Pier
When: All day event – Fireworks at 9pm
What you need to know: The main event is a fireworks display from the Municipal Pier. There is also a parade that runs through downtown during the day so come early to get a good seat. There are game booths and live shows going on all day so there’s plenty to enjoy for the whole family. Parking is available along the streets and day lots so the best thing to do is get there early before all the beach parking fills up.
Costs – FREE
Why it’s so fun: Office chair races! While not technically a city event, every year residents rope off a street for office chair races. The entire laid back beach town parties all day on July 4th so no matter where you go there are people celebrating.
Huntington Beach
Where: Downtown Huntington and the Pier
When: July 4th-6th – Fireworks at 9pm on the 4th
What you need to know: The 4th starts with breakfast in Lake Park, a 5K Run & Fitness Expo, and the parade down Main Street all before noon. Then you can go to the Pier Plaza Festival and hang out until the fireworks show off the pier at 9pm.
Costs – Breakfast is $5, Parade seating is $15 pre-sale ($20 day of) and VIP firework seating on the pier is $10
Why it’s so fun: Huntington Beach parties all weekend long – it’s a marathon event. The Pier Plaza Festival is a 3-day event that runs from July 4-6. And this 4thof July event is my personal favorite because of all the extravagantly decorated homes down Main Street. The homes in downtown Huntington are already adorable, add dozens of red, white a blue banners and hundreds of flags and it’s the perfect picture of small town American pride.
Irvine
Where: Irvine High School Stadium
When:Festivities begin 3pm
What you need to know: This is a full day event with music, food, games, color guard presentation and of course a fireworks finale. This year there will be music by the Derek Bordeaux Group singing Motown Classics, Jazz and R&B.
Costs–14 and over tickets cost $14, seniors and children are $9 and a family ticket for 2 adults and up to 4 kids is $45.
Why it’s so fun: This isn’t your average fireworks show; it’s a Pyro Musical Sky Concert & Fireworks Extravaganza. The fireworks are perfectly choreographed with patriotic music to finish off the night right.
Irvine Insight: Irvine is very family and community oriented so most neighborhood communities have their own celebrations. For example Woodbridge has a big 4th of July bash at the South Lake with food and drink vendors, music, games and a fireworks show at night. Turtle Rock also has a family fun day for the 4th with face painting, bounce houses, a chili cook off and more. These events are for residents and their guests only. That’s why homes for sale in Irvine are so desirable – buyers not only purchase a house but a lifestyle as well.
Fullerton
Where:Fullerton High School
When: 5pm – Fireworks at 9pm
What you need to know:The event includes live music, games and activities and delicious food. You can bring your own drinks and snacks but the event is strictly alcohol free – coolers will be checked. This year the variety band the Soundbytes will be playing the event. Parking is free and located at the North Orange County Courthouse, Wilshire parking structure and Plummer Structure.
Costs – FREE admission. Some activities cost $2-$4 each
Why it’s so fun: Fullerton’s Independence Day bash benefits charity so the more fun you have the more you help out! All food vendors are local charities and prices are reasonable. That means you should definitely go back for seconds and a dessert! There are plenty more 4th of July celebrations going on in Orange County. Leave a comment and let us know where you’ll be catching July 4th fireworks in Orange County this year or share what you love about one of these Independence Day shindigs.
