Nothing says 4th of July like barbecues, parades, and, of course, fireworks! LA has a plethora of options and so many are free! Consider this your cheat sheet on where to celebrate your love for the red, white, and blue.
[Note: This is the 2010 list. See the list of cheap and free fireworks shows for 2011 here.]
Start your day off right with a parade (and you thought we were gonna say Bloody Mary!). Clowns, hot dogs, and baton twirlers abound around the county. You can head out to the Santa Monica 4th of July Parade or the Pacific Palisades Independence Day Parade and enjoy the cooling ocean breezes while you sweat with the masses. Or, strap on your helmet and cycle over to the Great American 4th of July Bike Parade. Remember to slather on the sunscreen, slap on a hat, and hydrate heavily. It'll be hot out there and it's critical to stay in top form for the evening's festivities.
And, if cheering on a street corner doesn't sound appealing, check out the alternates around town. Our top picks are the Jazz and Blues Festival in Leimart Park and the Mr. and Mrs. Muscle Beach Contest. Who wouldn't want to spend an afternoon watching couples flex their stuff? Please note that all sun care advice still applies. Just 'cuz a marching band isn't involved doesn't make it safe!
Fireworks are key to any 4th festivities, so pick a location and head over early to nab a prime spot for viewing. At the Coliseum there will be an extravaganza. The Palisades is promising to Rock the 4th with a benefit concert, Culver City wants to educate you on the proper way to do it up with a blow out at the high school, and Marina Del Rey is going to light up Chase Park with their version of an explosive good time. We always recommend blankets to keep the grass, sand, or asphalt out of your hair. Also, if the crowds are a bit much, see if you can park somewhere near the main event and stretch out on a car roof for a private show.
Grill, cheer, and raise a glass to what Americans do best (ignore significance and party). Happy Independence Day!