July 4, 2025 Breaking News, Latest News, and Videos

Santa Monica Celebrates America

City’s only firework display June 29

By Keldine Hull 

The City of Santa Monica’s only fireworks display will be back for its 26th year on Saturday, June 29 at Santa Monica College. Hosted by Santa Monica College (SMC), and featuring a star-spangled fireworks display by Pyro Spectaculars Entertainment, “Celebrate America” is the City’s official and largest Independence Day celebration.

Gates open at 5 p.m., festivities kick off at 6 p.m., and fireworks are scheduled to illuminate the sky at 9 p.m. 

This year’s event includes performances by country rocker Chris Mulkey, Delux and the Santa Monica College Jazz Band and the SMC Cheer Squad. Trapdoor Social, known as much for their solar-powered concerts and festivals around the US as they are for their fundraising projects with organizations like Homeboy Industries and Kids Cancer Connection, is also expected to perform. Eddie Jauregui will make his return as the event’s emcee.

Guests are welcome to stop by any of the community service booths, food trucks and food booths operated by Kettle Corn and Stuff, Pucker Up Lemonade and the Boy Scouts. At the SMC 90th Anniversary Lounge, guests can learn more about programs and academic opportunities available for students. SMC began hosting the pre- Independence Day celebration in 1993 after previous attempts by the City resulted in overcrowding and a full deployment of police and fire forces. Sponsored by the City of Santa Monica, Santa Monica Pier, T- Mobile, Halton Pardee + Partners, and Associated Students of Santa Monica College, the free event is open to the public. And of course, donations are welcome.

Event coordinators want to remind the public that alcoholic beverages, glass containers, barbeques, personal fireworks, chairs with pointed legs, and smoking is prohibited. No furry friends allowed. Parking is $5 and lots open at 4 p.m.

To learn more, visit: http://www.smc.edu/ACG/Marketing/Events/Pages/Celebrate-America.aspx

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