Top Things to Do for the 4th of July

Knott’s Berry Farm

Looking for fun this 4th of July in Anaheim? Try one of these adventurous celebrations —such as Newport Dunes’ inflatable water park or Anaheim’s Firecracker Run with a dog show and 4th of July Parade!

Whether you’re interested in enjoying live entertainment, giving back to the community, or simply watching stunning fireworks, these Independence Day events have something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a list of the top things to do in and around the city this Independence Day.

Celebrate Independence Day at the Theme Parks

Disneyland® Resort

Disneyland® Park’s annual Independence Day show is set to feature incredible firework displays set to patriotic music. For those not going into the park this 4th of July, you can still catch the show from nearby rooftops, such as the Fifth Rooftop Bar and Restaurant (reservations highly encouraged!) or watch the action from the Downtown Disney® District or the Esplanade between both park entrances. This annual salute to America set to patriotic music is as spectacular as you’d expect from Disneyland® Resort.

Discover more rooftops in Anaheim with the Disneyland® Resort fireworks view.

Knott's Berry Farm

Speaking of world-renowned theme parks, the nearby Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park hosts one of the area's top July 4th celebrations, featuring family-friendly entertainment from sunup to sundown—including the reimagined Camp Snoopy, Ghost Town Alive!, and Knott’s Summer Nights—culminating in a spectacular fireworks display at night. Don't miss this dazzling celebration and be sure to dress the part in red, white, and blue.

Anaheim 4th of July Celebration

The Firecracker Run

Firecracker Run

Our city’s all-day extravaganza begins with the Firecracker Run, offering a 5K and 10K timed run or a 5K untimed walk for those who prefer a more leisurely pace. After the race, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere at the Yankee Doodle Dog Show and the 4th of July Parade that starts at Canyon High School. This year’s party will feature sizzling hot dogs, tasty treats, and plenty of live entertainment throughout the day. As the sun goes down, enjoy the stunning fireworks show at Peralta Park, lighting up the night sky in a dazzling display of colors.

Orange County Gets Patriotic

Brea Country Fair

Celebrate Independence Day at Brea's Annual Country Fair, held at City Hall Park, just a stone's throw from Anaheim. This full day of patriotic festivities opens at 7:00 a.m. and features a pancake breakfast, live entertainment, a kiddie parade, a dog parade, and a classic car show.

Explore the Market Place area, where you can find handmade gifts, along with a variety of food, games, and exhibits. Admission to the Country Fair is free, with swimming at the Plunge municipal pool starting at 12 p.m. Enjoy a community-filled day of fun and celebration of the Fourth of July in the heart of Brea!

Dana Point Water Wars and Doheny Beach Fireworks

Doheny Beach Fireworks

Water Wars is an epic water fight in Dana Point Harbor in which small boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and even inflatables are armed with squirt guns, buckets, and more. The event usually hits its peak around noon, so get there early to join in on the action!

At sundown, head to Doheny Beach for their dazzling fireworks display. Watch vintage warplanes make a patriotic flyover just before 6 p.m.

4th of July in Huntington Beach

Founded in 1904, Huntington Beach’s Independence Day event is billed as the biggest 4th of July celebration west of the Mississippi, with over 50,000 annual attendees! The celebration kicks off at 7 a.m. with a pancake breakfast, followed by the annual Surf City Run 5K, a float parade, an after-party, and, finally, their “Fireworks Over the Ocean” show, a stunning patriotic event you won’t soon forget.

Newport Dunes

Newport Dunes

For a day filled with music and outdoor action, check out Newport Dunes Tunes at the Dunes Independence Day Celebration, which features live music entertainment, an inflatable water park, paddle boats, kayak rentals, and plenty of food trucks to satisfy every craving. The event ends with a must-see fireworks show over the lagoon, so bring your lawn chair or beach towel to secure a spot!

Laguna Niguel Family YMCA Run in the Parks

If you’re looking to give back this 4th of July, sign up for the annual Laguna Niguel Run in the Parks, now in its 45th year. The race offers a 5K and a Kids Run option. Every race entry fee directly benefits the YMCA scholarship fund, which supports those in need within the community. This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Independence Day by promoting health, community spirit, and support for a great cause.