Get Out: Independence Day

Independence Day is Monday, meaning patriotic celebrations and of course, a long weekend. So fire up the grill, enjoy your blueberry/strawberry/whipped cream flag pie, and get out to see some fireworks. 

Where/When: , 905 Ocean Ave., Seal Beach; 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday
Why go: Join a discussion of Humes’ book Mississippi Mud and meet the author.
Pricing: Free

Where/When: Joint Forces Training Base, 11206 Lexington Drive, Los Alamitos; 4 p.m. Monday
Why go: A great fireworks display and festival and flyover
Pricing: $5 per vehicle

FOURTH OF JULY FREEDOM FESTIVAL
Where/When: The Navy Golf Course, 5660 Orangewood Avenue, Cypress; 4 to 10 p.m. Monday
Why go: There will be clowns, childrens games, live music, and picnics, and it's a great location to see the Joint Forces Base Flyover and fireworks. Money raised will go to Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach Morale, Welfare and Recreation program.
Pricing: Free for military, $5 per person or $20 per carload.

LAGUNA BEACH ART FESTIVALS
Where/When: , 777 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach; Sawdust Art Festival, 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, and , 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.  and  are already open, the Festival of the Arts opens Sunday.
Why go: Get out to see — and buy — some great art. Plus, classes for adults and children. 
Pricing: Varies from $7 to $7.75 for adults; a $19 Passport to the Arts admits patrons to all three festivals