Our country’s Independence Day is a time to reflect on those who came before us, who fought for freedom and who paved the way to a brighter future. In this special July 4th collection of things to do in LA, we share the many ways to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness with the following throwback-inspired events and activities.
WHAT TO DO IN LA
July 4: AmericaFest at Rose Bowl or Queen Mary’s All-American Fourth of July
There’s so much more to the fourth than watching fireworks in the backyard. For starters, celebrating the holiday in one of LA’s many historic spots. Both the Rose Bowl, founded in 1888, and the Queen Mary, with its maiden voyage in 1936, are listed in the National Register of Historic Place. The 88th annual AmericaFest at the Rose Bowl features motorcycle stunts, a performance by Liverpool Legends and the largest fireworks display in Southern California. Paying tribute to the country’s eras, the All-American Fourth of July party at the Queen Mary includes a Gatsby buffet with flappers and jazz, a 50s soda hop with a juke box and hula hooping, and an 80s arcade with Donkey Kong, Centipede and Air Hockey.
For those interested in the beginnings and evolution of Los Angeles, the Grand Tour is a great way to learn about our past and present. It takes guests through Chinatown, the Sunset Strip, Venice Beach, LA’s birthplace at Olvera Street and many more iconic spots for a comprehensive experience of LA’s history.
WHAT TO SEE IN LA
July 1: An Evening with Molly Ringwald
When one thinks of the 1980s, an image of Molly Ringwald in The Breakfast Club comes to mind. But this Renaissance woman is also an accomplished writer and singer, having penned two books by 2012 and released a jazz album in 2013. Ringwald will perform songs from her newest record at the Rockwell Table and Stage, including her own version of “Don’t You (Forget About Me).”
June 30-July 13: Ghost the Musical
The original Ghost starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg was the most popular film of 1990, winning two Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay by Bruce Joel Rubin and Supporting Actress. Rubin has since adapted the screenplay to the stage with original score by Grammy winner Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics. Ghost the Musical will show for two weeks at the historic Hollywood Pantages.
WHERE TO STAY IN LA
Equidistant from Universal Studios and Pasadena, guests at the Hotel Amarano can have their pick of the fireworks shows at both hot spots.
Built in 1924 by Culver City’s founder Harry H. Culver, the Culver Hotel is located by this week’s most popular attractions. Venice Beach’s Mr. & Ms. Muscle Beach contest, the Aquarium of the Pacific BBQ and shows in Hollywood are all just a short drive away.
