July in Los Angeles is all about sunshine, community, and making the most of long summer days, and we’ve rounded up the best ways to do just that. We encourage you to take the chance to soak in the vibrant energy of the city with unforgettable outdoor entertainment.
From exciting concert series and festivals to cozy rooftop movie nights, there’s something special for every mood and moment.
This summer also offers a meaningful way to support local businesses and communities that are still recovering after the recent fires. Every food truck you visit, every artisan vendor you shop from, and every local event you attend helps LA rebuild stronger.
So grab your loved ones, explore the events we’ve highlighted, and make some sweet memories over great music, food, and starlit movie nights. Enjoy everything that makes July in LA so magical.
1 – July 4th Celebrations
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SPECIAL NOTE: After this article writing there were reports that some 4th of July public celebrations may be canceled due to federal ICE raids. Please check for most recent news and updates before attending any public July 4th celebration.
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Celebrate Independence Day this 4th of July at Dodger Stadium as the Los Angeles Dodgers take on the Houston Astros! Take in the excitement of baseball with the best hotdogs, and classic ballpark atmosphere as these two powerhouse teams face off.
Then enjoy the spectacular July 4th fireworks show presented by Budweiser, lighting up the summer sky in a dazzling salute to our country.
Join the Free Fireworks shows across the city! Head to the Gloria Molina Grand Park in Downtown LA for a family-friendly Summer Block Party featuring live music, food trucks, and an eco-friendly drone light show in place of fireworks.
Over in Marina del Rey, catch a dazzling 20-minute fireworks display over the harbor at 9:00 PM, best viewed from Burton Chace Park or Fisherman’s Village. Down the coast in Long Beach, enjoy waterfront fireworks, bring a blanket, arrive early, and enjoy a night of patriotic fun under the Southern California sky!
Lastly, we recommend joining a fun parade to celebrate America’s independence! Santa Monica is set to honor its sesquicentennial (150 years of cityhood) with a vibrant Independence Day parade along Main Street.
The procession kicks off at Pico & Main, travels south on Main, turns onto Marine, and concludes near Barnard Way at the Ocean Park Library grandstand—promising an energetic mix of colorful floats, marching bands, local performers, and artistic flair.
Another great parade is the LAX Coastal (“We Love LA!”) parade, beginning at 11:00 AM at Manchester & Loyola, this 25th annual march continues down Loyola Boulevard to 80th Street, featuring lively music, community groups, and patriotic entries that reflect the area’s spirited unity.
All of these events offer all the festive, family‑friendly celebrations you look for on July 4th.
Location: Various
Pic Credit: @EVENTSINCALIFORNIA
2 – Summer Nights LA fun
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Los Angeles summer nights come alive in July with a trio of beloved outdoor events that blend culture, community, and cinematic charm under the stars.
On July 18 and 25 Barnsdall Art Park welcomes guests to the 21+ wine tastings featuring a curated flight of boutique wines from Silverlake Wine, rotating food‑truck fare, and live DJ sets—all against breathtaking sunset views over Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign.
Our beloved city also shines with its open‑air concert series throughout July. These awesome concert series are for free for all ages. Explore KCRW Summer concert schedules for dates and locations near you. More fun outdoor free concert also in DTLA California Plaza, Long Beach, West Hollywood, and OC parks.
Our last recommendation for fun summer nights is rooftop movies! For movie lovers, Rooftop Cinema Club’s summer line-up is a highlight.
So what’s playing in July? At LEVEL DTLA, they’ll be showing films like “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”, “Twilight”, “Top Gun”, “La La Land”, “Mamma Mia!”, “Scarface”, “Grease” and many more.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @DEPARTMENTOFCULTURALAFFAIRS
3 – OC Fair
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This year the OC Fair at the Costa Mesa Fairground is themed “Find Your Happy.” Expect dozens of carnival rides and also family-friendly attractions. Beyond the rides, the fair invites guests to explore a wide array of exhibits and hands-on activities.
Enjoy visiting the Centennial Farm’s live animals, pig races, and petting experiences to the Explorium, offering rainforest encounters, magic shows, cooking demos, and a kids’ play area—there’s plenty to spark curiosity and delight.
There will be chef demonstrations, wine seminars, artisan craft workshops, floral and garden competitions, community art displays, and Heroes Hall’s rotating veterans’ exhibits. Live entertainment is in full swing across multiple stages.
Also, don’t miss out the family-friendly magic shows, cooking contests on Promenade Stage, and action-packed events in the Action Sports Arena like monster trucks and demolition derbies.
The culinary scene is equally grand, showcasing deep‑fried creations, giant turkey legs, bacon‑wrapped treats, funnel cakes, and rotating Taste of the Fair specials.
Add in interactive contests and competitions—from pie‑baking and gardening to blue ribbon craftsmanship—and you’ve got a jam‑packed 23‑day celebration perfect for creating summer memories!
Location: 88 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
PIC Credit: @ocfair
4 – Fun at the Pier
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We handpicked some of the greatest Beach Piers near LA to visit this month of July. We highly encourage you to visit and support Malibu Sunday Sessions. This event is held every second Sunday of the summer months, including July 13th. It features free live music, food and drink, and pop-ups from local vendors.
This initiative aims to support local Malibu businesses that are recovering and rebuilding after recent wildfires. A portion of every purchase supports California State Parks, revitalizes the local economy, and celebrates the resilience of the Malibu community.
Next is our beloved Santa Monica Pier, a historical playground. The Santa Monica Pier continues to reign as one of the most fun and iconic beach destinations in Los Angeles, drawing crowds year-round with its unbeatable mix of nostalgia, entertainment, and oceanfront charm.
Unlike any other pier along the California coast, this historic boardwalk offers something for everyone—whether it’s a ride on the solar-powered Ferris wheel for sweeping views of the Pacific, a heart-pounding spin on the classic rollercoaster, or hours of fun inside its vintage-style arcades.
The pier’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by local street performers, waterfront restaurants serving everything from seafood to churros, and easy access to the adjacent skatepark that keeps the energy buzzing with tricks and flips.
Lastly, Redondo Beach Pier. A beloved coastal gem for both locals and visitors, offering a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere filled with fun for all ages. From family-friendly events like the annual kite festival that fills the sky with colorful creations, to the popular summer concert series that brings live music to the waterfront on warm evenings, there’s always something happening here.
The pier provides easy access to nearby parks and green spaces, making it perfect for a full day of seaside adventure. Food lovers will find no shortage of options, with everything from casual bites like fresh seafood and tacos to upscale dining spots offering stunning ocean views and delightfully curated menus.
With its welcoming charm and wide variety of activities, Redondo Beach Pier continues to be a favorite destination to unwind, explore, and enjoy the best of Southern California’s beach culture.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @santamonica
5 – Best Festivals in July
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On July 20th, the El Festival Colombiano takes over Pico Rivera Sports Arena, spotlighting Colombian culture with infectious music, colorful dance, and delicious food.
Drawing on a 40‑year tradition, the festival features live bands, reggaeton, Colombian dishes, and other surprises. All this wrapped in a lively, family friendly atmosphere.
Next suggestion is the Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival on July 26th. A unique celebration of heritage, athleticism, and community. Teams from across Southern California compete in exhilarating dragon boat races on the waterfront, while families enjoy cultural booths, live entertainment, food vendors, and waterside ambiance, making it a summer highlight for spectators and participants alike
For all Anime Expo enthusiasts, and visitors looking for an awesome indoor fest, then head-over to LA Convention Center from July 3-6 and participate in the largest Japanese celebrations in LA, Anime Expo. With an expected attendance surpassing 100,000 fans AX will transform downtown LA into a four‑day extravaganza.
The Academia theme this year sets the tone, blending scholarly aesthetics with fandom flair. Think campus‑style programming, creative workshops, and university‑inspired cosplays. Highlights include ticketed events like Maid Cafés, Idol Summer Escape, and Anisong concerts, alongside free‑for‑all attractions like the Masquerade cosplay showdown and voice‑actor autograph signings.
Don’t miss out on any of these great events!
Location:various
PIC Credit: @signaltribune
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