Fourth of July Events & Fireworks in Long Beach
Long Beach is going all out for the Fourth of July with Sea to Shining LBC: America’s 250, a weeklong celebration of patriotism, sports and entertainment culminating in a spectacular fireworks finale stretching across the coastline. Whether you prefer watching from the beach, celebrating aboard the Queen Mary, dining with waterfront views or cruising the harbor for a front row seat, there are plenty of unforgettable ways to catch summer’s biggest show.
FIREWORKS AT THE WATERFRONT
The centerpiece celebration features three free, synchronized fireworks shows launched simultaneously from barges off Granada Beach in Belmont Shore, Junipero Beach in front of the Long Beach Museum of Art, and the Queen Mary waterfront, in a spectacular patriotic display. The 20-minute show will illuminate the shoreline. Spectators can take in the fireworks from the Downtown waterfront, a favorite beachside spot, aboard the Queen Mary or on a fireworks cruise offering a front-row seat to the show.
FREE VIEWING LOCATIONS
For those looking to enjoy the fireworks for free, Long Beach offers plenty of prime viewing locations along its coastline. The area around the Lions Lighthouse (200 Aquarium Way) has long been a favorite gathering spot for spectators, while Granada Beach, Cherry Beach and Junipero Beach provide excellent waterfront vantage points. Visitors can also watch from Shoreline Village and the Downtown waterfront. With fireworks launching from multiple locations offshore, virtually any spot along the water will offer clear views of the spectacular display.
QUEEN MARY
Celebrate Independence Day aboard the Queen Mary (1126 Queens Hwy) during “Cheers to 250 Years!” from 3 to 10 PM. The family-friendly event features live music, tribute bands, DJs, themed entertainment zones, strolling performers, interactive games and classic American food and drinks. Guests can choose between General Admission or an enhanced VIP experience while exploring the historic ship. A special World War II aircraft flyover honors the Queen Mary’s wartime legacy before the celebration culminates with a spectacular, triple shot fireworks show.
LONG BEACH MUSEUM OF ART
For an elevated Fourth of July experience, enjoy the fireworks from Claire’s at the Museum at the Long Beach Museum of Art (2300 E Ocean Blvd). Perched atop the bluff overlooking the Pacific, between the Belmont Pier and Queen Mary barges, the venue offers sweeping coastal views and a unique vantage point for the city’s synchronized fireworks display. Guests can dine and sip cocktails while watching the night sky light up over the shoreline, creating a memorable Independence Day celebration. For reservations, click here.
HARBOR BREEZE CRUISES
For a front-row seat to the fireworks, hop aboard Harbor Breeze Cruises’ Fireworks Observation Cruise departing at 7:45 p.m. from Dock 2 at 100 Aquarium Way. The two-hour voyage takes guests through Long Beach Harbor at sunset before arriving in prime position to watch the spectacular fireworks display from the water. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard. Due to heavy Fourth of July traffic, guests are encouraged to arrive two to three hours early to avoid missing departure. For reservations, click here.
CITY CRUISES
City Cruises’ (100 Aquarium Way, Dock 6A) three-hour harbor voyage pairs spectacular waterfront views with an elevated dining experience, featuring a chef-prepared buffet, summer cocktails and live DJ entertainment. As the sun sets, guests can take in iconic sights including the Queen Mary before enjoying an up-close view of Long Beach’s dazzling fireworks display. With a full bar and a full fun and festive atmosphere, it’s an unforgettable way to spend the Fourth. For reservations to both the brunch cruise during the day on July 4 and the dinner cruise with fireworks that evening, visit the City Cruises website.