Where private fireworks are allowed and how to catch public shows in the Coachella Valley
The Fourth of July is typically celebrated across the Coachella Valley with pool parties and firework displays. But are private fireworks allowed?
Read on to learn about different regulations in the valley and beyond, to enjoy a safe Independence Day.
What fireworks are allowed where?
There will be an array of events featuring fireworks to commemorate the Fourth of July in Riverside County, but only four cities in the county allow the use of private fireworks.
"Safe and sane" fireworks, which usually have sparklers at the end of a stick, are non-explosive and have approval from the California fire marshal, are permitted in Indio, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs and Blythe under local ordinances.
That means they're not allowed in Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, La Quinta and Indian Wells.
The use of fireworks in cities where they are not permitted or illegal fireworks in cities that only allow "safe and sane" ones could result in a fine as high as $1,500, according to Benjamin Guitron, spokesperson for the Indio Police Department.
People in other Riverside County cities, including in the valley, can still enjoy fireworks at designated celebrations. (More on that below.)
When to purchase private fireworks
State law allows vendors with permits to sell certain fireworks from June 28 through July 6. But again, cities may have their own stipulations.
Indio allows for the purchase of fireworks on the same dates that the state does, and these can be used from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on those days. The same hours apply in Coachella, except that the sale of "safe and sane" fireworks concludes on July 4 at 11:59 p.m.
In Desert Hot Springs, the sale of "safe and sane" fireworks began on June 28 and will end on July 4 at 10 p.m.
Even if fireworks are not allowed for private use in your city, the following is where and when you can enjoy a grand display for the holiday in different parts of the valley.
Saturday, July 1
The city of Coachella will start the party early at Bagdouma Park (51-723 Douma St.) from 6 to 9 p.m. The free event will feature fireworks, games, local food vendors and live music. For more information, visit Coachella.org or call 760-501-8100.
The city of Desert Hot Springs will present its 2023 fireworks show from 6 to 10 p.m. at Mission Springs Park, 14-510 Palm Drive. It's free to attend, and music and food will be available.
Monday, July 3
Coachella Crossroads, Spotlight 29 Casino will have free fireworks and performances by DJ Chase Martinez of Jammin 99.5. and country music singer Blane Howard from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will take place at Coachella Crossroads, next to Spotlight 29 Casino, 46-605 Dillon Road. Visit coachellacrossroads.com for more information.
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino's free, annual fireworks display will begin at 9 p.m. at Eagle Falls Golf Course, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway. Music will be simulcast on KPLM The BIG 106.1 FM. Visit fantasyspringsresort.com/fantasy-fireworks to learn more.
Tuesday, July 4
Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage will hold its Fourth of July celebration from 3 to 9 p.m. at 32-250 Bob Hope Drive. The free event takes place at the South Dirt Lot, with 700 first-come, first-served spaces available. Known as the Fireworks Spectacular, the event is in its ninth year and includes DJs, giveaways, promotions, dining specials and a “drive-in fireworks" experience.
The city of Palm Desert will host a concert and a 20-minute fireworks display from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Civic Center Park, 43-900 San Pablo Ave. Attendees can watch the fireworks go off with accompanying music played on on two local radio stations (to be announced) at the end of the night.
The city of Palm Springs has a number of weekend events leading up to — and on the day of — Fourth of July. They include concerts, free movies, a pool party and fireworks. Read about them at tinyurl.com/psFourth2023.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: What Fourth of July fireworks are legal around Palm Springs?
