“It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.” So declared our second President John Adams about American Independence Day…although he originally envisioned it as July 2. This end of the continent, to be sure, knows how to celebrate the Fourth of July in fine form. There are so many fireworks displays in and around Los Angeles that it’s difficult to list them all. But of course, there are other forms of celebration as well. Here’s our Haute 5:
Palisades Americanism Parade
Pacific Palisades, the neighborhood that likes to call itself “Small Town, Big Heart” (their new slogan), is having a classic hometown parade down Sunset Boulevard (between Via de la Paz and Drummond Street) beginning at 2 PM, followed by live entertainment, then of course 9 PM fireworks at Palisades Charter High School.
Old Glory Boat Parade
Not to be outdone, the American Legion Yacht Club of Newport Beach is hosting its annual Old Glory Boat Parade (now in its 58th year). More than 100 vessels will complete for trophies including “best decorated,” “outstanding music,” “finest costumes,” “most creative animation,” “greatest spirit,” and even the coveted Commodore’s Award! The parade begins at 1 PM, but the day’s activities begin at 7 AM with that all-American tradition, a pancake breakfast, and end with what is reportedly SoCal’s biggest fireworks display!
Hotel Erwin’s Rooftop Barbecue
The Erwin’s rooftop lounge offers some of the best panoramic views of Venice Beach. This year, they are offering two all-you-can-eat classic American BBQ menus including burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, chips and dip, mac ‘n’ cheese, watermelon and a s’mores bar. The first shift is 11am-4 pm ($50 for adults, $25 for kids) and the evening, 5pm to close ($100 adults only, includes champagne toast as well as, naturally, prime fireworks viewing). Students of the Scratch DJ Academy will provide the soundtrack.
Hotel Erwin is located at 1697 Pacific Avenue, 800.786.7789
The Rockets’ Red Glare
Of course there are fireworks in every direction. Some recommended displays include the Rotary Club’s at Big Bear Lake (the fifth largest in the entire state), Hollywood Bowl (above), Marina Del Rey, and the Rose Bowl.
Be Your Own Miss America
Consider making your own fireworks, with one of the vintage-inspired patriotic swimsuits by Southern California designer Fables By Barrie (at top, modeled by the South Bay’s own Bettie Page look-a-like Bernie Dexter). Va-va-voom.
Fables By Barrie fashions are available locally at Unique Vintage, 2013 W. Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank 818.953.2877 and Songbird, 2240 East 4th Street, Long Beach, 562.439.4444
