July 4th is quickly approaching, and you’re probably starting to think about your plans. With Los Angeles businesses slowly re-opening, you may be wondering what festivities will look like on Independence Day this year. Well, after a year of staying inside, we’re happy to say that there are a whole lot of fun events to look forward to! Here are a few of our favorite things to do in L.A. that will be starting back up this 4^th of July.

1. Huntington Beach Celebration

Photo by Jeff Gritchen of the OC Register, via City of Huntington Beach

“The largest Independence Day celebration west of the Mississippi” is the claim on their website, and it’s easy to believe considering the wide range of activities included in this year’s celebration. The weekend will include a parade, a 5K race, a festival, a decorating contest, and (of course) a fireworks show over the ocean!

2. Smorgasburg

Photo by Krisztian Tabori, via Unsplash

The largest open-air food market in the US is returning this July 4^th, making it one of the top things to do in L.A. for the holiday. Smorgasburg is a great daytime activity and will allow you to try some great food to fuel up before venturing out to see fireworks in the evening. Over 50 vendors will be featured! The market is open from 10 am to 4 pm and is located in Downtown LA.

3. Marina Del Rey Fireworks

Photo via Marina del Rey Conventions & Visitors Bureau

When it comes to finding things to do in L.A. for the 4th of July, this destination will always make our list: view a beautiful display of fireworks by land or sea in Marina Del Rey. City Cruises will be selling spots on their boats to get a unique view of the show, so make sure that you book your spot right away!

4. AmericaFest at the Rose Bowl

Photo by Mr. Pasadena, via WordPress

What’s more American than motocross, BBQ, and fireworks? Enjoying them from the comfort of a football stadium! The 95^th Annual AmericaFest Celebration will be held at the Rose Bowl Stadium this year and will offer plenty of patriotic festivities and food. Field seats are limited so if you’re interested, make sure to book your tickets soon!

5. Disneyland

Photo by Erin Glover, via Disney Parks Blog

Disneyland has announced the return of its famous fireworks show this Independence Day, and Mickey’s Mix Magic show will be debuting. Enjoy truly magical fireworks while chowing down on a turkey leg, then go on a few rides afterward! Need we say more? Space is limited so be sure to reserve your spot and purchase tickets for a spectacular night of family fun!

6. Cinespia at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Photo by Kelly Lee Barrett, via The Hollywood Reporter

Visit the landmark Hollywood Forever Cemetery this 4^th of July to watch the classic movie Dirty Dancing, followed by a fireworks show. The movie begins at 9 pm but the gates open at 7:15 pm. To make sure nobody puts you in a corner, get there early for the good seats!

7. Performances at The Hollywood Bowl

Photo by Adam Latham, via Imgur

Get down on it with Kool and the Gang at this year’s July 4^th Fireworks Spectacular at The Hollywood Bowl, a favorite of LA locals every year! In addition to Kool and the Gang, there will also be performances by Thomas Wilkins and The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra. Buy your tickets now and look forward to a family-friendly night of music and celebration!

Bonus idea: Buy a new home!

Photo by Light Field Studios, via Envato

Okay, we know this is not the most conventional idea for things to do on the 4th of July. But you could celebrate the nation’s independence by pursuing the “American dream,” and you could do that by purchasing a new home with JohnHart Real Estate! Find homes with backyards perfect for grilling, swimming pools the whole family can enjoy, or balconies to watch fireworks from