July is one of the best months for sun enthusiasts in Los Angeles and there is always plenty to do this time of the year. And after a long delay the sun seems to finally have arrived in time for July!
With the beautiful Los Angeles weather there are so many outdoor events happening like summer festivals, family get togethers, movies, water activities and so many other exciting options available outside throughout this July.
With so many choices there is an abundance of fun available and we want to share with you this curated collection of our favorite events taking place in LA this month. We have some suggestions for the entire family, as well as exclusive events tailored for adults, ensuring that everyone can find something fun to celebrate the start of the summer season in Los Angeles.
1 – July 4th Events in LA
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It’s time to celebrate our country, SoCal-style! Wear your red, white, and blue outfits this year to one or more of these awesome celebrations we have here for you. The first recommendation is, of course, the LA County beaches and beach town celebrations. Head to the beaches for waterfront fireworks spectacular events. We recommend Marina del Rey, Long Beach, Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, and Newport, as these are among the best shows.
Grand Park in DTLA is hosting their annual July 4th event, this year featuring drones to light up the sky instead of traditional fireworks. A super exciting agenda has been prepared for the whole day, filled with fun and family-friendly activities, as well as music.
Angelenos’ favorite theme parks are also dressing up for America’s birthday and inviting everyone to join them. Check out Disneyland, Universal Studios, Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Red, White, and Boom at Legoland.
If you’re looking for family-friendly events, be sure to check out the flyers of surrounding towns in LA for beautiful July 4th-themed local fests with music, kids’ rides, food trucks, wine and beer, and fun shows. We recommend Let Freedom Ring in Cerritos, Kaboom at Fairplex in Pomona, and the Anaheim 4th of July celebration.
And let’s not forget about the parades! Here are some recommendations for you to check out: the Santa Monica 4th of July Parade and March, the July 4th Parade and Kids’ Day in San Gabriel, the Newport Beach Bike Parade, and Huntington Beach’s 119th Annual Parade.
Location: Various
Pic Credit: @newport beach news
2 – July Fun Family Activities
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Sazon Latin Food Festival announces its return with over 12 Latin food vendors this year. It’s free to enter, and it’s family-friendly. Also, expect lively music and tasty drinks.
The Lotus Festival in Echo Park will take place on July 15th and 16th. This beautiful event welcomes people of all ages and features Dragonboat races and handcrafted artwork. There will be a food court and a children’s fun area.
Get ready for one of your favorites: the OC Fair in Orange County. Happening on July 14th, this event brings all the fun of carnival rides and games for all ages. Additionally, expect a wide variety of carnival food and desserts throughout the event venue. The courtyard is open every day of the OC Fair, and wine enthusiasts are invited to indulge in a delicious glass of local wine.
Last but not least, remember that July 28th is National Water Park Day! So head over to your favorite water park in Southern CA to celebrate this awesome day. Our favorites include Wild Rivers in Irvine and Kott’s Soak City. And for all those brave souls seeking thrilling adventures, don’t forget to visit Black Snake Summit in Hurricane Harbor.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @national day calendar
3 – July Outdoor Concerts and Movies
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It’s time for free sunset summer concerts, and it’s also time to take your family to outdoor movies. Explore the numerous beautiful outdoor venues and have a fantastic time listening to talented musicians and other artists. Additionally, enjoy the various movie screen options available throughout LA County, including parks, rooftops, museums, schools, and creative venues like pop-up drive-ins.
Immerse yourself in captivating performances by singers, musicians, poets, and more, all for free this month. Our first recommendation is California Plaza, where you can experience alfresco entertainment in the heart of DTLA without spending a dime. Expect to be delighted by performers from around the globe. Other enjoyable and free sunset concert venues include Skirball and Levitt Pavilion.
Be sure to check out Parks After Dark, with over 34 LA County parks participating and offering fun for all ages, including movies, concerts, teen zones, senior social hours, sports and fitness events, Parkpalooza, and other exciting activities. Don’t forget to explore LA County Parks and discover a park near you.
We also recommend Street Food Cinema, Rooftop Cinema Club, Summer Movie Night Flix Series in West Covina, Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Marina del Rey Movie Nights, and PCH Movies and Moonlight in Long Beach. For drive-in pop-ups, consider visiting Paramount Drive-In, Gardena Drive-In Cinema, and Drive-In at the Park, located at Kenneth Hahn Disc Golf Course.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @mommy poppins
4 – Long Beach Dragon Boat Racing
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We love July in Long Beach because they have so many fun and unique events happening. One of their coolest annual July traditions is the Long Beach Dragon Boat Festival. This year the Dragon Boat Racing at Marina Stadium in Long Beach will take place on July 29th. Join this fantastic event and enjoy the sight of the cool-looking dragon boats and the participating teams in this amateur and fun watersport.
This is undoubtedly one of the biggest competitions in California in this category, so bring all your friends and family on this day. All guests will have the opportunity to indulge in great food and enjoy good music. Additionally, expect to see traditional Chinese art exhibits and demonstrations.
Looking for more entertainment? You got it! Acrobats, traditional dancers, hip hop performances, and martial arts demonstrations will also be featured at the festival.
Location: 5255 E. Paoli Way, Long Beach, CA 90803
PIC Credit: @long beach local news
5 – Best Fests to Drink and Dance
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Wondering what it’s like visiting Colombia? Head over to Pico Rivera Sports Arena on July 23rd and experience a little taste of Colombian music, food, and culture. ¡A rumbiar se dijo! El Festival Colombia is a fun event, celebrating Colombia’s Independence Day in LA, features three music stages blasting salsa, merengue, bachata, electronic music, and Reggaeton.
Also, expect to see performers dressed up and dancing traditional Cumbia, a legendary dance style that traces back to the 1800s with roots in Colombia’s African culture from the Caribbean Coast.
Another super fun “drink all you want” festival is taking place at San Buenaventura State Beach on July 15th and 16th. Get your tickets online and join in on the fun.
Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, make sure to participate in this fantastic event. What’s it all about? Tequila, tacos, and music! That’s right, eat, drink, and dance all day, amigos. Have a great time, enjoy tequila sampling, and groove to live music. Don’t forget to bring your friends!
Location: 11003 Sports Arena Dr, Pico Rivera, CA 90601
PIC Credit: @Ticketón
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!