Photo courtesy of the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Every 4th of July poses the same question: what to do? We all have our traditions, like the family BBQ, the beach day and sparklers in the front yard, but the city of Long Beach has so much more to offer for traditional celebrators of our nation’s independence. For those looking to catch some fireworks this July 4, read on. Here are four places in Long Beach to catch the Independence Day spirit.
Queen Mary Presents All-American 4th of July Celebration
From 2PM to 11PM Thursday, the Queen Mary will be celebrating our country by highlighting the best of traditional American entertainment decade by decade. Entertainment will include a stilt-walking Uncle Sam, bingo and golden-era games and characters, the Lil’ Big Band, and a barbershop quartet the will conclude with the California Foot Stompers, all-American movies and DJs. At the end of the night, the ship will display one of the largest firework shows in Southern California.
For more information, tickets, VIP Packages, and special July 4th Overnight Stay visit queenmary.com/events/july-fourth.php or call (877) 342-0738.
Fireworks Show in Alamitos Bay
The day before July 4, the Long Beach Firefighter’s Memorial Association will be hosting the 56th Annual 4th of July Fireworks Show at Alamitos Bay Yacht Club. While the ticket price for childern and adults is $10 and $30, those looking for a less-expensive night will be able to see the 9:30PM firework display outside of the Yacht Club just as well (and for free!).
For more information and to buy your tickets, visit lbfdmemorialassociation.org/Fireworks_Show.html
Long Beach Sea Festival Pier Daze 4th of July at Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier
Enjoy the exciting entertainment of White Boy James & the Blues Express, Johnny Mastro & Mama’s Bouys, Lisa Cee, the 44’s, Mighty Mojo Prophets, Gino Matteo, Mercy 4, and K.K. Martin down at Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier during this all-day festival.Head over at 10AM when the fun begins or arrive after dark and watch the coastline light up with fireworks shows. Tickets are $20.
More information at www.lbseafest.com
4th of July Concert at Willow Springs Park
Located at 2745 Orange Avenue (between Spring St and Willow St), the newly opened Willow Springs Park is playing host to its first major 4th of July festival, starting at 6PM at the park’s Longview Point. Bring the kids out for food trucks, fun activities and the The Bernie Pearl Quartet beginning at 7PM. As a plus, watch all of the local firework shows afterward from the highest accessible point in Long Beach.
Aquarium of the Pacific Independence Celebration
Families will be able to witness the ambiance of the Aquarium at night and get a fish-eye view of the City of Long Beach fireworks display. BBQ hours are from 6PM to 8PM but the Aquarium is open from 9AM to 11PM, with discounted admission starting at 5PM.
More information at www.aquariumofpacific.org/events/info/july_4th/