Events
Annual Brea County Fair
July 4. Join in for the annual Country Fair and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary taking place this weekend. There’s something for everyone to enjoy – from rides, to a car show, live entertainment and swimming at the Plunge, a pancake breakfast, and much, much more. Admission to the Country Fair and the Plunge is free. Swimming at the Plunge begins at noon. The event is this Saturday at the City Hall Park, from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. City Hall Park, 401 S. Brea Blvd., Brea. More Information
Salute To America
July 3. Come for an unforgettable Salute to America and celebrate a historic double milestone—America’s 250th anniversary and the City of Cypress’ 70th birthday. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy festival-style seating, with food and refreshments available for purchase throughout the evening. Cypress College, 9200 Valley View Street, Cypress. More Information
4th of July Extravaganza
July 4. Come for an unforgettable display launched from a barge just off the coastline of Doheny State Beach. Enjoy synchronized patriotic music during the show for the full experience. Prior to the fireworks, don’t miss a beloved annual tradition: the Condor Squadron flyover, featuring WWII North American AT‑6 aircraft soaring above Dana Point this Saturday, from 5:50 p.m. to 5:55 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. More Information
4th of July in Huntington Beach 2026
July 3-5. Huntington Beach goes all out for Independence Day, hosting what is widely considered the largest Fourth of July celebration west of the Mississippi. The three-day festival, running July 3–5, transforms Downtown Huntington Beach into a celebration of Americana, complete with a carnival at Pier Plaza, live music, family activities, food vendors, and entertainment throughout the weekend. A complete schedule of activities, locations, and more, can be found here.
Food + Drink
Ahba Takes Over Sawdust
Open Now. Laguna Beach darling, Ahba, is bringing their signature burgers, drinks, and more, to this year’s Sawdust Festival. Known for their eclectic, relaxed vibe at both their original Laguna Beach location as well as the newer Costa Mesa spot, Ahba’s burger is consistently regarded one of the best in all of Orange County. Guests of Sawdust can now relax in between visits to artists to dive into one for themselves- and maybe enjoy the Sawdust-exclusive soft serve ice cream too. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. More Information
4th of July Calaca Mamas Style
July 4. The female-founded Mexican restaurant features a spacious outdoor patio overlooking the Disneyland Resort fireworks, complete with fire pits and unobstructed views, making it an ideal destination for Independence Day celebrations. On July 4, guests can enjoy views of Disneyland’s “Disney’s Celebrate America – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” spectacular, scheduled for 9:30 p.m., while savoring authentic Mexican cuisine and the best handcrafted margaritas in town – Churro on Ice cocktail, anyone? Saturday at 11 a.m.-1 a.m. 1550 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim. More Information
Noble Ace at Laguna Beach
Now Open. Noble Ace officially opens its doors today inside the iconic Heisler Building, introducing Laguna Beach to an elevated dining experience where exceptional cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, thoughtful design, and heartfelt hospitality come together to create an unforgettable experience. Behind Noble Ace is one of Orange County’s most accomplished hospitality teams, bringing together decades of experience from some of Southern California’s most celebrated restaurants. Hours vary. 400 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach. More Information
Shelter Distilling
Now Open. Shelter Distilling is a grain-to-glass distillery, craft brewery, cocktail bar, and kitchen – and after building out a new space, they are ready to welcome guests and bring their award-winning whiskey, handcrafted cocktails, fresh beer, and elevated food to Southern California’s coast. Experience the spirit of adventure where the mountains meet the ocean, with unforgettable meals, sunset drinks, weekend gatherings, and genuine hospitality. Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. More Information
Arts + Culture
The Global Phenomenon Arrives!
Starts July 11. It’s time to believe in magic at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, playing July 11 – 25 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. The 6-time Tony Award-winning Best Play lets you experience the next adventure —a race through time with fiery battles, magical spells, and the whole wizarding world brought to life before your eyes. Tickets start at just $44. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2787. scfta.org
Red Cross Blood Drive at Bowers Museum
July 2. Give the gift of life, and get a dose of culture in return. On July 2, donate blood with the American Red Cross and receive free General Admission to the Bowers Museum, their way of saying thank you for showing up for your community. Where art meets action, one small act on your part can make all the difference for someone in need. Roll up your sleeve, then explore through our galleries and be part of something bigger. Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana. More Information
Photo credits: All images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
