As the sun begins to set on the Fourth of July, fireworks displays erupt all over the Los Angeles basin. And because of fire danger, most are well-controlled shows, in stadiums, open-air arenas and over the ocean. The most popular (and biggest) are at the Hollywood Bowl (at about 10 PM, as the concert's finale – which this year is a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the LA Dodgers, with a special appearance by Randy Newman) and the Rose Bowl in Pasadena (8:30 PM); and over the ocean at the ends of the Redondo Beach Pier and the Malibu Pier (after sunset, beginning between 8:30–9 PM).
To get a dramatic overview of the fireworks, many head for the scenic pull-offs along Mulholland Drive, which allow you to see displays on both the cityside and the valleyside. But for those looking for a more sedate setting, there are few better than Yamashiro, a romantic Japanese pagoda set high above the Hollywood Hills, just a canyon away from the Hollywood Bowl.
For those going to Disneyland (where there are fireworks every night at 9 PM), there's a great view from the balcony at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen. Take note – Brennan's is in Downtown Disney, outside the park, so you don't have to pay admission to eat there and enjoy the display.