Spectacular 4th of July Fireworks in Southern California

Is this the year you decide to break with your tradition and are wondering where to go to watch 4th of July fireworks? If so, let me make a few suggestions for you to consider. Depending where in the greater Los Angeles or Orange County area you live and how far you want to travel, here is a list of some of the more spectacular displays.

Los Angeles County Fireworks Shows

1. Hollywood Bowl - The Bowl offers a fireworks show on Friday, July 2nd at 7:30 PM, as well as one on July 3rd. The July 4th show features country-western singer Vince Gill, but when I checked prices online, a family of four cost close to $400.00, not including parking. Another suggestion, pack your lawn chairs and find a nice spot near the Bowl and watch for free!
2. The Queen Mary in Long Beach - Celebrating aboard the Queen Mary with the most spectacular display in Long Beach. For $24.95 per adult, with children and senior rates, you can count on a day filled with music, activities, BBQ, and the fireworks at 9 PM.
3. Pasadena Rose Bowl - The show is called "Americafest 2011" and price-wise, this is by far the most reasonable, at $13 for adults, children 7 and under free, and military with ID, also free. Here is the link for the Rose Bowl: http://www.rosebowlstadium.com

Some of the most beautiful fireworks in Orange County are always at local beaches or at the harbors. There is always the possibility, however, that the marine layer will move back in and the fireworks will be obscured. I have watched fireworks set off on the San Clemente pier, Dana Point Harbor, and Laguna Beach, as well as at Laguna Hills High School, and have only experienced one or two years where it was not crystal clear out. Here is a link for more information of other community shows in Orange county:

http://www.orangecounty.net/html/Weekend_eventsJuly.html

Where ever you do end up spending your 4th of July, DO REMEMBER, we are STILL "THE LAND OF THE FREE AND THE HOME OF THE BRAVE!" Let's celebrate our liberty and freedom while there is still time!!