Celebrate Independence day soaking up L.A’s summer sun amongst a lively crowd or take it easy in the slow lane. We’ve rounded up 9 great things you can do outdoors from watching a movie and taking a hike to partying hard under the night’s sky.

Watch a flick

Keep back and relax watching an outdoor movie screening this Independence Day. Pack a blanket, some snacks, and a few beverages to watch Jurassic Park being projected on the mausoleum wall of Hollywood Forever Cemetry. For a little more comfort, head to Mr. C Hotel’s poolside cinema where you can indulge in celebratory cocktails and popcorn while watching Miss Congeniality.

Take a 4th of July dip

Cool off at one of L.A’s best public swimming pools including Hollywood Pool, Culver City Municipal Plunge or Annenberg Community Beach House. For those looking for a daytime pool party, you’ll no doubt have a great time at the Red White & Aqua Pool party at Shade Redondo Beach.

Cruise down the boardwalk

Soak up some sun and enjoy people watching as you cruise down Venice Beach Boardwalk and along Santa Monica Pier on push bike. Don’t forget to dress in your best patriotic colours of blue, red and white as you dodge street performers and vendors.

Work up a sweat

Before you indulge in a delicious 4th of July feast and celebratory drinks, work up a sweat with a hike to one of L.A’s best spots.

Host a BBQ

Don’t want to entertain a crowd in your own home? Host a BBQ at one of the many great spots around the city. For sand and water, head to Dockweiler State Beach or for ample space to throw a ball, fire up the barbie in Griffith Park. You may see fireworks from Elysian Park or enjoy a little more peace and quiet at Echo Park Lake.

Grab a cone

Satisfy that sweet tooth with a refreshing ice-cream or gelato cone. Discovery L.A. has compiled a handy list of the most popular parlors around the city to head to this summer. Check it out here.

Party the night away

The Grand Park 4th of July block party continues to draw a healthy crowd looking for a good time. Kicking off at 2pm, there’s promise of tasty food trucks, live tunes and an impressive fireworks display. There is also a place for the little humans to run around and be entertained, and dogs are invited too.

For those who are a little tight, you’d be happy to know this event is FREE! Just remember, it’s an alcohol-free event.

Be bedazzled 

It’s hard to miss an Independence Day bash without taking in a fireworks display somewhere in the city. You’ll find plenty of spots to view the colourful pops of sparkle in the night’s sky, but our top pick is at Hollywood Bowl, Culver City or America Fest at Rose Bowl Stadium.

Escape! 

Run free escaping the crowds and party atmosphere with your own relaxed 4th of July weekend glamping. You’ll find a list of the best glamping spots around California here. Fingers crossed they’re not all fully booked!