Fourth of July Events & Fireworks in Long Beach

Long Beach is one of the best places in Southern California to celebrate the Fourth of July, with a massive celebration aboard the Queen Mary, a BBQ at the Aquarium of the Pacific, and many ways to see the fireworks at night. Watch the show for free from the downtown waterfront or book a fireworks cruise for a closer view!

Big Bang on the Bay

July 3

One of the biggest events in Long Beach on July 3 is the block party at Boathouse on the Bay at 190 N. Marina Drive. This year, the party begins at 5 PM and features BBQ catering by Naples Rib Co. and entertainment including aircraft flyovers, paragliding displays, a Coast Guard Dolphin Search and Rescue demonstration, and live music with a special DJ. The event concludes with a 30-minute fireworks display at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $85 per adult and $35 per child under 10, with proceeds going to charity. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here. City Cruises will offer a cruise with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails during the fireworks show. Visit the City Cruises website to book.

FIREWORKS AT THE WATERFRONT

July 4

Viewers will be able to enjoy the Queen Mary’s 9PM fireworks show all along the waterfront, with prime viewing points at Lions Lighthouse in Shoreline Aquatic Park, Shoreline Village, Rainbow Harbor, and Marina Green. Parking is available at various paid lots, including at the Aquarium of the Pacific parking structure, the Pike Outlets, the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, and others. For details on parking in the area, visit parklb.com.

ON THE WATER

July 4

Enjoy the fireworks show on the water with special 4th of July cruises offered by City Cruises and Harbor Breeze Cruises. Harbor Breeze will set sail from Rainbow Harbor at 7:45 PM on July 4, so guests will get an amazing view of the fireworks show from onboard the Triumphant. To reserve your spot, visit their website. City Cruises will host a dinner cruise boarding at 6:30 PM, including a full bar, chef-prepared buffet meal, and a DJ. For reservations, visit the City Experiences website.

Fun & Fireworks Fit for a Queen

July 4

The Queen Mary (1126 Queens Hwy.) hosts a full day of family-friendly entertainment on July 4. The Queen’s decks, bars, salons, and ballrooms will host all kinds of entertainment from decades throughout history, from an Old Time Fair for kids representing the 1910s to a 1920s Gatsby party and a 1980s Glow Bar. The celebration begins at 3PM with fireworks launched from the ship’s stern at 9 PM. Add on tickets to the Silent Disco After Party to dance the night away. For tickets and information, visit the Queen Mary’s Fourth of July event page.

AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC

July 4

View the dazzling undersea "fireworks" and natural spectacles displayed by the aquatic residents of the Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way), which is offering its annual 4th of July BBQ from 12 to 2 PM. Tickets include a private table on the rooftop Veranda dining area and all-day Aquarium admission.

HOTEL MAYA

July 4-6

Celebrate the Fourth with three festive days at Hotel Maya (700 Queensway Dr). On Friday, July 4, enjoy a lively pool BBQ from 11 AM–3 PM with grilled fare, tropical cocktails and live steel drum music. In the evening, head to restaurant/lounge Fuego and its stunning ocean views, for a pre-fixe dinner featuring BBQ Spiced New York Strip and warm apple pie and pair it with panoramic views of spectacular waterfront fireworks. Saturday brings another poolside BBQ and a Latin Jazz brunch at Fuego. On Sunday, the hotel launches a 70s-themed month with retro DJ sets, brunch, and Anheuser-sponsored pool party. Book the Stars, Stripes and Sips staycation, available July 3–7, with fireworks, drinks and parking included.

Stars, Stripes & Skylines at HALO

July 4

Celebrate Independence Day at the only rooftop bar in Long Beach with skyline views—the Fairmont Breakers' HALO. In addition to having a front-row seat to the Queen Mary's fireworks show, attendees can enjoy a live DJ set by DJ Resolution, a welcome drink, and food offerings.

Plus, if you're a hotel guest at the Breakers, you'll receive 50% off for you and your +1 (with proof of stay). To redeem this discount, present your reservation at the door.

About the Author
Claire Atkinson
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