6 Fourth of July Festivities & Firework Shows in Newport Beach
The weather is heating up, and summer is officially here! If you’re raring to go and ready for some Fourth of July fun, the sun-soaked city of Newport Beach is ready to celebrate. With a variety of Independence Day events on the books—from festive firework displays to patriotic parades—there’s no shortage of red, white and blue entertainment this year! With that said, we’ve rounded up six ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in Newport Beach!
Red, White and Blue Water Cruisin’
For a taste of tradition this Fourth, join the festivities of the American Legion Yacht Club’s Old Glory Boat Parade! This is a time-honored annual event where boat owners decorate their vessels in red, white and blue for a cruise around Newport Harbor. If you own a boat of your own, you can dress up your vessel to compete for a chance to win awards like “Best Decorated,” “Best Music” and “Best Theme.” For those who prefer to watch the action, snag a seat on the sand and wave as the fleet cruises by!
On the hunt for a full day of family fun? Head to Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina for their annual Independence Day on the Back Bay celebration! Reserve your parking space and enjoy a day chock-full of Fourth of July festivities, including access to food trucks, live musical performances, water sport and electric boat rentals, lawn games like Giant Jenga and Cornhole and a dazzling firework show! This event starts bright and early at 8 a.m. and wraps up after the firework show.
Another local Fourth of July favorite, the 11th Annual: 4th of July is for Families bike parade and festival is a great way to get outside and be a part of the community’s festivities. Put on your best red, white and blue ensemble and hop on a bike, scooter or skateboard for a ride down the Balboa Peninsula. The parade begins at 9:00 a.m. at the cross-section between W. Balboa Boulevard and 36th Street—pups are welcome too! The festival portion is set to take place at Channel Place Park from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and will feature carnival games, arts and crafts, lawn games, music and food for sale.
With the beaches bound to be filled with wall-to-wall people, skip the crowds this year and reserve your very own Cruisin’ Tiki boat! These circular, seafaring vessels feature a shaded central bar and can accommodate up to six people. Cheers to a day on the water as your Coast Guard-certified captain navigates the beautiful bay. Book your 4th of July Evening Cruise (7:30 to 10:00 p.m.), and enjoy the 4th of July firework displays from the comfort of your very own private island!
No Independence Day is complete without some good ‘ol American BBQ. Pick up a few fresh cuts from Arc Butcher & Baker in the historic Cannery Village or The Butchery in Crystal Cove. Each of these carnivore havens offers an assortment of tasty meats like locally made sausages, ground beef patties, ribeyes and all-natural pork and poultry. So whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or heading to the beach for a bonfire with family and friends, nothing beats a delicious spread of smoked meats.
As one of Newport Beach’s many hidden gems, Balboa Island is the perfect place to celebrate with the family this Fourth (and beat the crowds). This charming island is home to a variety of sandy spots to pitch a towel, soak up the sun and watch the boats cruise by. Take a stroll down Marine Avenue and discover a variety of quaint shops and restaurants including, Wilma’s Patio Restaurant, 501 Park Ave and The Village Inn. If you plan on bringing the kiddos along, be sure to stop by Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop for a famous hippo cookie, “Bal Bar” or frozen banana.
Written by: Kaylin Waizinger
