South Orange County, California, Loves to Celebrate Our Nation's Birthday

Having lived in South Orange County for almost 20 years, I've come to realize something: We love a party! Especially when we can display beautiful fireworks displays and watch them from 8:45 to almost 10 p.m. at night, with only a mere movement of our heads!

Besides the whizzing streaks of color, we here in the south end of the county also enjoy chili cook-offs, parades, carnivals, concerts and even some pancake breakfasts. For more information as to when and where the (are you holding onto your sun visors?) over 36 fireworks displays will be taking place and the exact starting times, log onto the Orange County Fire Authority's website at www.ocfa.org or call 714-573-6225.

Many of the areas cities will be holding all day events. Some of note are Aliso Viejo at the Grand Park at Town Center. For a list of activities please call 949-448-5922. As of Friday, June 29th times were still being adjusted.

At some of the beach communities the city officials suggested coming down and spending the day at the individual harbors to have a spot for the 9 o'clock fireworks displays. For more information these cities suggested calling them individually for various events being held in their areas:

Dana Point: 949-248-3530
Laguna Niguel: 949-425-5100
San Juan Capistrano: 949-493-5911

San Clemente's display will be off the San Clemente Pier at 9 p.m.. Laguna Beach Fireworks will be shot off at 9 p.m. as well from Monument Point at Heisler Park on Cliff Drive and there will be a private show from Three Arch Bay from a barge and Irvine Cove will also have a private showing. With all of these, you may not here the accompanying music, but the show will be quite spectacular and easy to enjoy!

Ladera Ranch will host a display from Founder's Park.

Rancho Santa Margarita will have an annual city celebration starting at 2 p.m. at the Lago Santa Margarita Beach Club. Their fireworks will start at nine over the lake. For a complete list of the days activities please log onto: www.samlarc.org

The city of Laguna Hills will be decking out the entire Community Center and Sports Complex for the day with a host of family fun activities. They recommended calling 949-707-2680 for a complete menu of the days events.

There will be fun, food and fireworks aplenty in South Orange County. Join in!