4th of July Festivities & Firework Shows in Newport Beach
The weather is heating up, and summer is officially here! If you’re raring to go and ready for some 4th of July fun, the sun-soaked city of Newport Beach is ready to celebrate. With a variety of Independence Day events on the books—from festive firework displays to patriotic parades—there’s no shortage of red, white and blue entertainment this year. With that said, we’ve rounded up eight ways to celebrate the 4th of July 2025 in Newport Beach!
Join the Fun at the Old Glory Boat Parade
For a taste of tradition, this 4th, join the festivities of the American Legion Yacht Club’s Old Glory Boat Parade! This is a time-honored annual event where boat owners decorate their vessels in red, white, and blue for a cruise around Newport Harbor. If you own a boat of your own, you can dress it up to compete for a chance to win awards like “Best Decorated,” “Best Music” and “Best Theme.” For those who prefer to watch the action, snag a seat on the sand and wave as the fleet cruises by starting at 1 p.m.
Celebrate Independence Day on the Back Bay
On the hunt for a full day of family fun? Head to Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina for their annual Independence Day on the Back Bay celebration! Reserve your parking space and enjoy a day full of 4th of July festivities, including access to food trucks, live musical performances, water sports, electric boat rentals, and a dazzling fireworks show! The Class Band will bring the beats, playing everything from oldies and classic rock to pop, country, 80s, and more! This all-day event starts bright and early at 8 a.m. and wraps up after the fireworks show, which starts at 9 p.m.
Attend the 4th of July is for Families Bike Parade and Festival
Another local 4th of July favorite, the 14th Annual 4th of July is for Families bike parade and festival, is a great way to get outside and be a part of the community’s festivities. Put on your best red, white, and blue ensemble and hop on a bike, scooter, or skateboard for a ride down the Balboa Peninsula. The parade begins at 9 a.m. at the cross-section between W. Balboa Boulevard and 36th Street—pups are welcome too! The festival portion is set to take place at Channel Place Park from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and will feature carnival games, arts and crafts, lawn games, music, and food for sale.
Make a Splash at Pendry Newport Beach’s Poolside Celebration
A hub for celebration and social gatherings, Pendry Newport Beach is the place to be this 4th of July! This year, the hotel is pulling out all the stops by hosting one of the summer’s biggest celebrations. Ring in the 4th of July with a festive, family-friendly day full of smoky BBQ bites, live music, ice cream and more. This pool party is one you won’t want to miss!
Sip & Celebrate at the Red, White and Blue Bar Crawl
For those who are 21+ and looking for a good time by the beach, don’t miss the Newport Beach Red White and Blue Bar Crawl on July 5th! This annual Independence Day pub tour is sure to satisfy all your “red, white, and brew” cravings. Hit some of Newport Beach‘s best bars and enjoy exclusive deals on drinks and themed beverages. Check-in for this event will begin at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 5. Note: there will be no cover charges at participating venues, and there will also be a free after-party!
Plan Your Stay With VEA Newport Beach’s The Red, White, and View Package
For a birds-eye view of the fireworks show this year, book The Red, White, and View Package at VEA Newport Beach! Available for stays between July 2-7, this seasonal offer gives you a front-row view of the fireworks show along with a 4th of July BBQ meal for two. Toast to freedom and the USA! This exclusive package can be booked on VEA’s website using code YQ1. See you there!
Fire Up the Grill for a Classic Summer BBQ
No Independence Day is complete without some good ‘ol American BBQ. Pick up a few fresh cuts from Arc Butcher & Baker in the historic Cannery Village or The Butchery in Crystal Cove. Each of these carnivore havens offers an assortment of tasty meats like locally made sausages, ground beef patties, ribeyes, and all-natural pork and poultry. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or heading to the beach for a bonfire this 4th of July in Newport Beach, nothing beats a delicious spread of smoked meats.
Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Newport Beach
If you’re planning to celebrate the 4th of July in Newport Beach, you’re in for a star-spangled treat. One of the most iconic places to catch the fireworks is at Newport Dunes, home to the aforementioned Independence Day on the Back Bay celebration, with the sky lighting up at 9 p.m. sharp. Want an elevated experience? Book The Red, White, and View Package at VEA Newport Beach for a stunning panoramic view of the fireworks show. For a more local vibe, Mariners Park is a favorite among residents, offering a relaxed setting with great visibility. Other scenic spots like Castaways Park also provide prime vantage points.
If you’re feeling festive and fancy, hop aboard City Cruises’ Premier Fireworks Dinner Cruise. With gourmet buffet dining, craft cocktails, a live DJ, and unforgettable views of landmarks like the Balboa Fun Zone, it’s a floating celebration that ends with a bang—literally! Wherever you land, Newport Beach promises a fireworks-filled night to remember.
Visit Newport Beach This 4th of July
With sun, surf, and no shortage of patriotic flair, Newport Beach is one of the best places to go for the 4th of July. Whether you’re cruising the harbor in a decked-out boat, pedaling through a festive bike parade, lounging poolside with BBQ bites, or raising a glass at a beachfront bar crawl, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And when night falls, the fireworks light up the sky, bringing the day to a dazzling close. So gather your crew, sport your stars and stripes, and get ready to make unforgettable memories—because the 4th of July in Newport Beach is nothing short of spectacular.
