Best things to do during Fourth of July week in Los Angeles and Southern California: July 1 - 4

If you haven’t been to a Stud Country line dancing night yet, what are you waiting for? The L.A. Times recently profiled the ongoing event, born from the queer line dancing culture that’s been a part of the city’s history for more than 50 years. The weekly parties draw dancers new and old (strutters over 60 get in for $10) and from all walks of life to keep the tradition alive.

An evolving video installation (it first opened at the Venice Biennale in 2019), artist and filmmaker Kahlil Joseph delivers his commentary on how we see Black culture through the lens of the news media, and what the world might be like if we didn’t. This ongoing installation – this iteration at Jerry Moss Plaza at the Music Center is done in cooperation with A24 and Participant – is mesmerizing and worth a detour if you’re coming downtown early for the fireworks across the street on Thursday night.

Estevan Oriol & Teen Angel: Dedicated to You introduces us to Oriol's evocative photography and explores the influential legacy of Teen Angel Magazine in Los Angeles. Highlighting Chicano art, lowrider culture, and tattoo artistry, the show at La Brea’s Beyond the Streets gallery also features original drawings and images of the Teen Angel studio. Oriol calls the exhibit an “homage to the city that raised me, the culture that shaped me, and the individuals who've walked this journey alongside me. It's a moment to reflect on the layers of Los Angeles, through the lens of my camera and the stories that have unfolded in its streets.”

Can’t wait 'til the 4th to get your fireworks on? Head down to Orange for the city’s 29th annual 3rd of July celebration, where there will be evening fireworks, food trucks, and a performance by the Orange Community Master Chorale.

5k and 10k runs, a parade grand marshaled by actor Steve Guttenberg, a home decorating contest, and a fireworks display at Palisades High – the Palisades really make L.A. feel like a small town on the 4th.

Enjoy a full day of games, activities, a WWII aircraft flyover, a variety of entertainment, and of course fireworks at the historic Queen Mary.

Ring in July 4 with three performances from New Orleans crooner Harry Connick Jr. and the L.A. Phil at the Bowl, followed by fireworks each night. Kids 12 and under are half-price!

The Reagan Library has events all day, including live patriotic music, family entertainment, picnic games, arts and crafts, and even photo ops with presidential lookalikes.

Catch a ferry out to Catalina and celebrate Independence Day with the USC Trojan Marching Band.

The Dodgers take on Arizona this week, but no matter the outcome Thursday night, there will be fireworks after the game – a win for everyone!

The annual fireworks show by the Marina waterfront is always one of the best in the city — as long as the fog doesn’t roll in!

Getting up high is key to a 360-degree fireworks experience in L.A. so the Rooftop Cinema Club is a good choice for your best chance at seeing multiple shows. It creates the perfect backdrop for a screening of what else but the 1996 Will Smith action hit Independence Day. Doors for this 18+ event open at 6:40 p.m., so get there early to secure a seat; your ticket includes live music, food and a non-alcoholic drink.

Ready to perfect your July 4 blueberry or strawberry pie? Whether you’re new to baking or an expert pie decorator, get your practice in and whip up a delicious treat just in time for your summer BBQ with this class.

Remember those bomb popsicles from the ice cream truck? Now that we’re all grown up, learn how to make the layered treat in cocktail form – The American Spirit – with this fun class at Eureka in Ontario. Get ready to wow your friends at your July 4th celebration!

If you’re heading to Dodger Stadium for any of the games this week, check out Shin’s slice of the month – a bacon bulgogi and kimchi pizza – on the way. Shin’s unique flavors are always unconventional. This month’s creation goes for $6.50 per slice and $44 for a whole pie.