And Stay Safe When Playing With Fireworks This 4th of July

Independence Day is just around the corner and all around Orange County, grand 4th of July fireworks displays are being planned to awe audiences of all ages. If you’re not in the mood for a posh backyard BBQ and setting off fireworks in the street, then escape to our beautiful valleys and beaches for food, fun and fireworks!
Here are some of our favorite 4th of July firework extravaganzas in OC …

Huntington Beach “Surf, Sun & Celebrate” 5K, Festival, Parade and Fireworks

7am Marathon – 10am Parade – 9pm (Fireworks)
This annual parade and street fair is a favorite of locals and families. Start the day with a 5K Marathon and fitness Expo. Then pull up a chair along Main street for the 109th annual 4th of July parade. Throughout the day there will food, drinks, crafts and free entertainment including Atomic dancer and musician, Danny Maika! End the night with a huge fireworks display at the pier.
For more information call (714) 536-5486

Disney Celebrates America! Fourth of July Concert in the Sky

9:30pm Fireworks
For something extreme while on vacation, head north to Anaheim CA, for Disneyland’s Special Independence Day Fireworks show! Visit the Disneyland Resort, stop into Downtown Disney for dinner or just pull off and park east of the 5 freeway for excellent views of this larger than life extravaganza. Only Disney Magic can put on a show this big!
For resort and guest information call (714) 781-4565

Dana Point July 4th Fireworks Show

All Day Activities – 9pm Fireworks
The Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach have food, games, activities and entertainment followed by a fireworks spectacular over Dana Point Harbor. Head up to the Marriott Resort for live bands and a view from on high. Or take a harbor cruise to take in the bright lights from below. Free shuttles are offered from Dana Point High School to Doheny Beach. And bring a radio – the fireworks are set to musical score and is simulcast on KSBR 88.5
For additional information on the celebration call (949) 248-3530
For harbor cruise reservations call (949) 487-7555

Independence on the Bay – Newport Beach & Back Bay

All Day Activities – 9pm Fireworks
A chili cook-off starts the day at the Dunes (1130am) and continues with face painting, crafts, activities, contest, music until late. The boats of Newport Bay get ready for a time-honored tradition – the 4th of July Boat Parade (1 – 5pm). And then grab some drinks aboard a cruise for the best views of the fireworks.
For Newport Dunes activities and fireworks show information call (949) 729-3863
For more information on the Boat Parade call (949) 673-5070
For Boat Cruise reservations call (949) 675-0551

Irvine’s Fourth of July Spectacular – The Pacific Symphony Presents Neil Diamond

Show at 8pm – Fireworks at Show Finale
A showcase of Neil Diamond’s mega-hits, patriotic favorites and a traditional salute to the U.S. armed forces . The Verizon Wireless Amphitheater has a variety of seating, including a lawn – you can pre-order packed meals and have a picnic. Children under 14 are half off in most sections. If you can’t make it to the concert, visit the Irvine Spectrum for fine dining and watch the fireworks during a romantic ride on the Ferris Wheel.
For more information or tickets call (714) 755-5799

Laguna Hills Fourth of July Celebration and Fireworks

4pm Fair – 9:10pm Fireworks
Grab your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a day bursting with fun at the Laguna Hills Community Center & Sports Complex. Bring your family and friends of all ages to celebrate our nation’s birthday with free admission, games, food, music, activities, ride, crafts and fireworks.
For more information call (949) 707-2680

Happy Independence Day!

You MUST SEE this video! I’ve been waning to share it for years, but YouTube doesn’t allow embedding.  It is a dance scene from the “Let’s Say it With Firecrackers” number in Holiday Inn (1942), a film featuring Fred Astaire and Bing Crosby with music by Irving Berlin.  So pop your collar, stay cool and be safe when playing with fireworks this Independence Day!

Say it with Firecrackers – Fred Astaire