From Long Beach to the LA Coliseum, here's how SoCal celebrated 4th of July

LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- Communities across Southern California celebrated the nation's 250th birthday Saturday with fireworks, patriotic gatherings and reflections on what Independence Day means to them.

In Long Beach, crowds gathered aboard the Queen Mary for what organizers described as the city's largest fireworks show ever. The event also marked the historic ocean liner's 90th anniversary since its maiden voyage.

"We're so blessed in America to have the rights that we have. There's no place like it," said Tammy Hill, who attended the Queen Mary Fourth of July celebration.

Hundreds of people attended the waterfront event, spending the holiday with friends and family while watching fireworks light up the night sky.

"My favorite part is being here with friends, best friends," Doug Hill said.

"It's carefree, fun they're having a great time," Brock Rogerson said.

Across town, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum hosted a holiday block party that launched an America250 initiative called "Giving 4th," an effort organizers said is intended to make Independence Day both a celebration and a day of service.

"A lot of people don't have the honors that we have. People take it for granted," said Marshall James, who attended the event.

Attendees described a festive atmosphere filled with patriotic displays and American flags.