As a transplant, I often reflect on holiday traditions I had growing up. Traditions tie us to a place. They create community, they build memories,and they weave a trail through our lives.
According to a National Association of Realtors 2012 study, The Benefits of Homeownership and Stable Housing, homeowners are likely to have a sense of attachment to where they live and their neighbors. Many people find it idyllic to live in an area where there are community events and a sense of local spirit.
So whether your whole street is into donning their red, white and blue or you can relate to a special fireworks watching spot, here is a look at some July 4 traditions that people buy into in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.
Legion “Old Glory” Boat Parade
Decorated boats set sail from Collins Island and continue throughout Newport Harbor from 1-3:30 p.m. The theme is “Celebrating Our Heroes.” View the parade map at www.ALYC.com.
Mariners Elementary School
Parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m. on the corner of Commodore and Mariners Drive. Festivities follow at Mariners Park, 11 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
Newport Peninsula Bike Parade and Community Festival
This event springs into action with a bike and dog parade at 9 a.m. beginning at Balboa Boulevard and 38th Street Park and will head down Balboa to Channel Place Park. Carnival games, giant slides, jump houses, arts and crafts and food continue until 11:30 a.m.
Newport Dunes Party
Visitors pay an entry fee to enjoy music, food trucks and fireworks starting as early as 8 a.m. The musical acts begin at 3 p.m. and the fireworks start at 9 p.m. More info: www.newportdunes.com.
Main Beach Fireworks in Laguna
Those who want to enjoy the great fireworks show should plan to view the ones at Heisler Park, located at 375 Cliff Dr. The fireworks show gets underway at 9 p.m.
By Holly Schwartz
Holly Schwartz is a realtor with Villa Real Estate who lives in Eastside Costa Mesa and has been featured on HGTV. She can be reached at HSchwartz@VillaRealEstate.com.
