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3 SoCal fireworks shows to check out this Fourth of July
File: A Fourth of July fireworks display takes place after the L.A. Dodgers defeat the Baltimore Orioles 7-5 at Dodger Stadium on July 4, 2016 in Los Angeles.
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Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images
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Independence Day has arrived — and that means colorful booms lighting up the night sky, preceded by a day of communities gathering together. Here are the details on some of Southern California's largest Fourth of July events.
Grand Park 4th of July Block Party
Los Angeles's official holiday gathering place Grand Park hosts this celebration, featuring music, food, games, crafts and a fireworks display that comes straight out of the civic center's skyline. Remember to grab a spot early — Grand Park gets packed with partygoers, and you'll want to find the right spot to enjoy the fireworks and live music while having enough room to stretch out a bit. Pro tip: There's a big list of prohibited items, so make sure to read up before heading out.
And check out the official parking map and read about the parking restrictions here:
When: July 4, 2 p.m.-9 p.m.
Where: Grand Park in downtown L.A.
Price: Free!
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Huntington Beach 4th of July Celebration
Huntington Beach 4th of July video
This year's theme: "United We Stand." Go celebrate America in this three-day patriotic festival. On the day itself, the morning opens with a pancake breakfast, followed by a parade, with music continuing at the Huntington Beach Pier. It all culminates in the fireworks show at 9 p.m. Pro tip: People are allowed to start staking out a spot for parade viewing beginning at 7 a.m. on July 3, so get there eeeeearly if you want one of the best viewing locations.
When: July 2-July 4; on July 4, parade kicks off at 10 a.m.
Where: Huntington Beach Pier Plaza
Price: Free!
AmericaFest at Pasadena's Rose Bowl
If you're willing to pay a little more for your Independence Day celebration, you can buy tickets to AmericaFest. It features the fireworks show you'd expect at 9 p.m., but there's also a motorcycle stunt show, rides and much more. Parking also costs $20, so make sure to include that in your holiday budget — or take public transportation. Full information about taking the Metro Gold Line is available on Pasadena's tourism site. Pro tip: Prices for the actual event too high for you? There are plenty of spots around Pasadena to stake out a spot and watch the fireworks in the skies overhead for free.
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When: July 4, starting at 2 p.m.
Where: The Rose Bowl
Price: $15 general admission, $30 reserved seating
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