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7 Fourth of July Festivities & Firework Shows in Newport Beach 

June 19, 2023

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 seven ways to celebrate the Fourth of July 2023 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 it up 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 between 1 and 3:30 p.m.

Festive Day on the Back Bay

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 full of Fourth of July festivities, including access to food trucks, live musical performances, water sport and electric boat rentals and a dazzling firework show! DJ yo-b1 will spin beats from 3-5 p.m., followed by a classic rock n’ roll performance from The Dreamboats from 5-8 p.m. This all-day event starts bright and early at 8 a.m. and wraps up after the firework show.

Parade Down the Peninsula

Another local Fourth of July favorite, the 12th 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 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.

July 4th Weekend Pub Crawl Experience

For those who are 21+ and looking for a good time by the beach, don’t miss the July 4th Weekend Pub Crawl Experience! This annual Independence Day pub tour is sure to satisfy all your “red, white and brew” cravings. Hit some of Newport Beach‘s best bars and enjoy exclusive deals on drinks, including $4 drafts, 2-for-1 mixed drinks and $5 Freedom Shots. Registration for this event will begin at Baja Sharkeez at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 1. Note: there will be no cover charges, and there will also be a free after-party at Malarky’s Irish Pub and/or Stag Bar + Kitchen starting at 9 p.m.

Tropical Booze Cruise

With the beaches bound to be filled with wall-to-wall people, skip the crowds this year and reserve your very own Newport Beach Tikis 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 an evening cruise, and enjoy the Fourth of July firework displays from the comfort of your very own private island!

Fourth of July Vacation at VEA Newport Beach

For a birds-eye view of the fireworks show this year, book a direct ocean view room or a Lumina room at VEA Newport Beach! Available for stays between July 2-7, this Fireworks Show Package also includes complimentary valet parking. In addition to a view of the fireworks, a Lumina room also comes with its own private firepit and a s’mores kit. This exclusive offer can be booked on VEA’s website using code ZE2. See you there!

Fire Up the Grill

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.

 Written by: Kaylin Waizinger 

Written by Visit Newport Beach

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