On July 4th, 2026, the United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary with grand fireworks displays across the country. In California, from the Golden Gate Bridge in Northern California to the famous Big Bay Boom in San Diego Bay in Southern California, dazzling fireworks will illuminate the night sky.
It is worth noting that each city has strict regulations regarding fireworks displays for safety reasons. Officials are urging the public to watch fireworks shows organized by professionals. The fireworks displays typically start around 9 p.m. on July 3rd and 4th, with some locations requiring advance ticket purchases. Here are some great places to watch fireworks shows in California.
The famous Big Bay Boom fireworks show in San Diego Bay will once again take place, featuring fireworks launched from four barges anchored in the bay, starting at 9:15 p.m. and lasting about 18 minutes. An estimated 300,000 to 500,000 people are expected to gather to watch the spectacle.
During the day, people can picnic and gather at the bay parks, enjoy the sunset in the evening, and then witness the fireworks show at night. Surrounding areas of San Diego Bay, including Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, South Embarcadero, and Coronado, offer great viewing spots, with the option of even watching from boats on the water.
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S., San Francisco will hold its only official fireworks show on July 4th at the Golden Gate Bridge. It will be the first time fireworks are set off at a national-level celebration at the iconic bridge, marking the third time in its 90-year history.
The fireworks display will begin around 9:30 p.m., with viewing spots including Crissy Field, Marina Green, and the northern Embarcadero area such as along Pier 39, Taylor Street, and Jefferson Street.
The Golden Gate Bridge will be completely closed during the Independence Day fireworks display, with no vehicle or pedestrian traffic allowed.
Marina Del Rey: This spot is one of the prime locations in Los Angeles for fireworks viewing. You can watch the fireworks from anywhere in Marina Del Rey or on the adjacent Venice Pier, with the show starting at 9 p.m. on July 4th and lasting for 20 minutes.
Hollywood Bowl: From July 2nd to 4th, there will be live performances by classic bands and a fireworks show following the concerts.
Avalon on Catalina Island: The only incorporated city on Catalina Island, Avalon, will have a full day of July 4th celebrations, including house and business decoration contests, a golf cart parade, live music performances, and a grand fireworks display over Avalon Bay at 9 p.m.
Claremont: On July 4th at 9 p.m., people can head to Pomona College to enjoy a concert and fireworks display.
Downtown Los Angeles: Starting in the afternoon of July 4th, a free community party will be held at Gloria Molina Grand Park in LA. As night falls, a light fireworks show featuring 700 drones will illuminate the sky.
Long Beach: Celebrations will kick off at 3 p.m. on Independence Day with hours of festivities, including various food options, live music, and a 15-minute fireworks display as the finale above the Queen Mary.
Rosemead: After a morning parade at 10 a.m., the city will host a large carnival celebration at Rosemead Park, running from noon until 10 p.m., culminating in a fireworks display in the evening.
South El Monte: The city will have a fireworks display at South El Monte High School at 9 p.m. on July 4th.
Cerritos: Cerritos High School will host a fireworks display at 9 p.m.
Walnut: Walnut High School will hold a fireworks display at 9 p.m.
Click here:
A list of professional fireworks shows in the Los Angeles area during the 250th anniversary celebration of the U.S.
Huntington Beach: The “Surf City” will celebrate the 250th anniversary with a three-day festivity, including a large fireworks display starting at 9 p.m. on July 4th.
Santa Ana: Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and picnic gear to enjoy a beautiful evening at Centennial Park with food vendors, live music performances, a patriotic dog contest, and fireworks starting at 8:45 p.m.
Tustin: On Independence Day, you can enjoy both aerial fireworks and live performances of popular hits by bands starting at 9 p.m.
Yorba Linda: A fireworks display will light up the sky at Veterans Park at 9 p.m. on July 4th.
Fullerton: Independence Day celebrations in Fullerton will take place at the downtown plaza, featuring a car show in the morning, live entertainment and various competitions from 5 p.m. onwards, with the fireworks display at 9 p.m.
Big Bear Lake: Starting at 8:45 p.m. on July 4th, fireworks will illuminate the sky over Big Bear Lake, lasting approximately 30 minutes.
Ontario: The city will host a parade at 9 a.m., followed by drone shows and fireworks at 8:45 p.m.
Eastvale: A full day of celebrations including a community parade, children’s market, live performances, and a fireworks show starting at 9 p.m. on July 4th.
Moreno Valley: Celebrations kick off with a parade at 9:30 a.m. followed by a “Family Fun Fest” from 3 p.m. onwards, featuring food vendors, a kids’ play area, live band performances, and fireworks at 9 p.m.
Several famous theme parks in California, including Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Park, and Six Flags Magic Mountain, will also host fireworks displays.
The above are just a few selected fireworks show locations, as there are many more options in surrounding cities. Due to possible schedule changes, individuals are advised to check with event organizers before heading out to confirm the latest timing and locations; note that some venues may require tickets for entry.