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Good morning, Orange County. This is Thrive OC. Whether you're planning a beach day with fireworks, a rooftop party under the stars, or just want to know the best spots to celebrate, this special July 4th edition has you covered.

Let’s make it one to remember. 🇺🇸

— Dave Berry

⭐ FEATURED EVENT: Huntington Beach Pier Parade & Fireworks

“The Biggest July 4th Celebration West of the Mississippi”

There’s no place like Huntington Beach on the Fourth. The city’s 121st annual parade rolls through Main Street at 10 AM, with marching bands, floats, and more than a hundred community groups. Later, head to the pier for the 9:00 PM fireworks show over the ocean—a signature OC experience.

🎟 Free to attend (VIP seating on the pier available for purchase)

📍 Main St & Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach

🅿️ Arrive early. Beach lots open at 5 AM and fill up fast. $30 (cash only) flat parking fee. Expect heavy traffic post-fireworks—plan your exit.

Parade Map:

🎇 OTHER TOP FIREWORKS SHOWS IN OC

• Dana Point – Fireworks over the harbor at 9:00 PM + WWII flyover at 5:50 PM.

• Newport Beach Back Bay – All-day festival at Newport Dunes with SoCal’s largest display.

• Laguna Beach – Stunning 9:00 PM show from Heisler Park overlooking the ocean.

• Mission Viejo – Street Faire & Fireworks at Olympiad Road (live music, rides, vendors).

• San Clemente – Fireworks from the pier. Pro tip: stake out a beach spot early.

• Anaheim Hills – Parade, pancake breakfast, dog show, and big fireworks at Canyon High.

• Knott’s & Disneyland – Both parks feature themed fireworks shows at 9:30 PM (park admission required).

🍽️ Rooftops & Restaurants with Fireworks Views

Looking for a classy spot to sip and watch the sky light up? These restaurants offer prime views (and air conditioning):

• Orange Hill Restaurant (Orange) - Panoramic fireworks views across OC. Premier Patio seating $35. Book early.

• The FIFTH (Anaheim) - Rooftop bar across from Disneyland with synchronized music during the show.

• RISE Rooftop Lounge (Anaheim) - Modern rooftop bar with fire pits, skyline views, and a sleek atmosphere. Perfect for catching Disneyland fireworks with a cocktail in hand. Reservations recommended.

• Las Brisas (Laguna Beach) - Upscale coastal Mexican with a front-row view of Laguna’s fireworks.

• Offshore 9 (Huntington Beach) - 9th-floor rooftop glow party + pier fireworks. 21+, tickets required.

🧨 Nightlife & July 4th Parties for Adults

OC’s got more than just sparklers. Here’s how to celebrate after dark:

• Red, White & Brew Bar Crawl (Newport Beach) - Themed drink specials, all-American energy, and fireworks before the crawl.

• TIME Nightclub (Costa Mesa) - 90s–2000s throwback dance party. Dress patriotic.

• Bleu Night Club (Westminster) - EDM, Top 40, red-white-and-boom vibes.

• Fireworks Cruises (Newport & Dana Point) - View multiple fireworks shows from the water. Most cruises are 21+ and sell out fast.

🚗 Parking & Local Tips

• Arrive early – most beach lots fill by 8 AM.

• Expect $30+ flat rates in Newport, Huntington, and Dana Point.

• Use shuttles or trolleys – Laguna, Mission Viejo, and Dana Point offer free transport from remote lots.

• Pack a flashlight if hiking to hilltop viewing areas (like Citrus Ranch Park in Tustin).

• Wait out the crowds post-fireworks. Grab dessert or a drink nearby and avoid the 90-minute parking lot crawl.

📍 Hidden Gem Fireworks Viewing Spots

• Panorama Heights (Orange) – View multiple fireworks shows at once from the hills.

• Citrus Ranch Park (Tustin) – Perfect for families, with a view from the top gazebo.

• Salt Creek Bluff (Dana Point) – Watch both Monarch Resort & Doheny displays.

• Disneyland Area Rooftops – BluSky, Parkestry, and nearby parking structures offer solid views—no ticket needed.

🌟 OC Trivia: Did You Know?

First held in 1904, the Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade is one of the longest-running Independence Day parades in the U.S., with only a short pause during World War II 🇺🇸

🙌 Thrive Tip: Your July 4th Survival Kit

Bring:

• Water (stay hydrated!), sunscreen, and backup phone battery

• Portable chairs and blankets

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Cash (some lots or booths don’t take cards)

• Patience… it’s worth it 😉

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Your support means the world—thank you for being part of the Thrive OC community! 🙌

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