F O R T H E F O U R T H
CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH THESE LOCAL OFFERINGS . BY ASHLEY RYAN
Fireworks on the Back Bay
From parades to fireworks , the Fourth of July is known for celebrations that go above and beyond . Bigger and better every year , these vibrant affairs — littered with red , white and blue apparel and decor , delicious summer bites and proclamations of love for our country — offer a feel-good atmosphere with plenty of chances to connect with others from the local community . Read on to discover where you can revel in patriotic cheer on this festive summer holiday .
INDEPENDENCE DAY ON THE BACK BAY Spend all day having fun in the sun at the Back Bay during this annual Fourth of July festival . Beginning at 8 a . m ., there are plenty of festivities to keep you busy throughout the day , all leading up to the fireworks show presented over the water in partnership with the city of Newport Beach at 9 p . m . After you ’ ve staked out a spot on the beach , take to the water to explore by stand-up paddleboard , kayak , Duffy or pedal boat — activities that the whole family can enjoy together ; Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina ’ s inflatable water park will also be open . As you settle back onto the sand , listen to live music from The Class throughout the afternoon , as the cover band performs everything from oldies and classic rock to Top 40 hits . Food trucks will be on-site for the event starting at noon while Moe B ’ s Munchies will also be operating , offering refreshing cocktails from the beachfront bar as well as summer favorites like burgers , hot dogs and pizza . Everything culminates with the impressive firework show , which will last around 20 minutes and shoot off a whopping 5,000 pyrotechnics . “ There will be a lot going on — a lot of entertainment ,” says Phil Ravenna , general manager of Newport Dunes . “ It ’ s family-oriented , with fun for kids of all ages . … Historically , we have a lot of people that come back year after year .” ( 949-729-3863 ; newportdunes . com )
OLD GLORY BOAT PARADE For maritime enthusiasts , the American Legion Yacht Club ’ s Old Glory Boat Parade is a definite highlight of the holiday . Before ships adorned in red , white and blue float through the harbor at noon , grab a spot along the waterfront to ensure a
COURTESY OF NEWPORT DUNES WATERFRONT RESORT & MARINA ; OPPOSITE PAGE , CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT : COURTESY OF CITY EXPERIENCES ; COURTESY OF CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH ; MIKE BERDINE ; MIKE NOWAK
46 NEWPORTBEACHMAGAZINE . COM