Q: What will the Fourth of July holiday look like this year in Santa Clarita?
We are overdue for a celebration and this year the Fourth of July will not disappoint. The City of Santa Clarita "Spirit of America" fireworks spectacular will once again light up the skies over Westfield Valencia Town Center. The show will begin at 9:15pm and the dazzling display will be accompanied by patriotic tunes broadcasted by KHTS AM 1220 and FM 98.1. Due to the lingering COVID-19 restrictions, it was not possible for the parade committee to hold the popular Fourth of July Parade this year. Still, residents are encouraged to drive around town and check out the decorated homes and businesses that are taking part in the city's Patriotic Home Tour. One thing that is discouraged this holiday - and every day - is illegal fireworks. Fireworks can easily ignite dry brush that can spark a wildfire; cause serious injuries; and also unnecessary fear for those experiencing stress and trauma. If you hear or see illegal fireworks in your neighborhood, you can report the location through the city's Resident Service Center (RSC). This information gathered will be used to "predictively" map out problem areas of concern for law enforcement efforts. Reporting illegal fireworks through RSC will not result in an immediate response from the Sheriff's Department. The Resident Service Center is accessible on the city's website at santa-clarita.com/RSC.


Q: Also returning this summer is a favorite city event series - Concerts in the Park! Will there be any changes this year? What can concertgoers expect?
I have heard from many residents how excited they are that Concerts in the Park are coming back to Central Park. I know I have missed setting up lawn chairs and blankets and enjoying the show while my kids play on the grass. This year we are moving the location of the shows to the back fields at Central Park, near the dog park. This will allow more room for people to spread out and enjoy the show. We once again have an incredible lineup of tribute bands playing the biggest hits from iconic groups like U2, ABBA, The WHO, The Rolling Stones and more. Concerts start at 7pm on Saturday nights, July 3 through August 28. For more information, please visit santa-clarita.com/concerts.


Q: It seems like every time I drive down Main Street in Old Town Newhall, a new business or restaurant has popped up. What are some of the new spots residents should visit?
There is so much to check out in Old Town Newhall. A great way to beat the heat is to take in a movie at the new Laemmle Theatre. This new theatre includes seven screens and approximately 500 seats for moviegoers. Laemmle Theatres are known for showcasing independent, foreign and art-house cinema - genres that were not readily available in the city until now. Make sure to review the movie listings because Laemmle is also playing some of the summer's blockbuster films and mainstream movies in the comfort of their brand-new theatre. On that same block, Newhall Crossings is now home to residents on the upper floors, while the first-floor businesses are opening their doors. Next time you are in the area, check out the XRO Fresh Churro Bar, The Loaf Japanese Bakery and Cafe, Rustic Burger House, Pops Artisanal Creamery, Maginn's Irish Pub, The Glasshouse LA, Grit + Gratitude and C'est L'Amour Nail Spa. Make sure to leave time to explore Main Street to visit your other favorite restaurants, tasting rooms, boutiques and more. You're sure to notice the progress being made at the highly-anticipated Reyes Winery's location, which will offer a picturesque roof-top tasting room. For more information on all Old Town Newhall has to offer, please visit oldtownnewhall.com.