<p>Catalina Island celebrates <a href="https://www.catalinachamber.com/fireworks" target="_blank">Independence Day</a> like nowhere else in the country. This charming seaside village goes all in for the Fourth of July, with a festive parade down Crescent Avenue, community barbecue in the Casino Ballroom and fireworks that reflect in Avalon Harbor and echo through the canyon. For about three decades, the parade – primarily composed of decorated golf carts and other quaint entries – has been led by the grandeur of the University of Southern California marching band. <br>As much fun as the Fourth of July in Avalon is, it’s definitely not the only summer event on Catalina Island.<br>The <a href="https://www.catalinamuseum.org/" target="_blank">Catalina Island Museum</a> – With its spectacular new building and dramatic Chihuly glass exhibit, the Catalina Island Museum has become a must-see attraction on Catalina Island. This summer museum staff are adding to the fun with Thursday night evening hours, First Fridays and the new <a href="https://www.catalinamuseum.org/calendar" target="_blank">Movies at the Museum</a>. Throughout the summer the museum’s outdoor amphitheater will screen a variety of movies, including Neptune’s Daughter on July 12, Romancing the Stone on July 26, A League of Their Own on August 9 and The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou on August 23.<br>Family fun – Summer time is family time on Catalina Island and there are plenty of old-fashioned weekly events to be had. Two of our favorites are the Kids Fishing Derby, every Wednesday at 7 a.m. on the green pier and Summer Beach Bingo, held Tuesdays and Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m. on South Beach.<br>Catalina concerts Live music on Catalina Island can frequently be found in the summer, with Live @ Descanso and the Catalina Concert Series leading the line-up. Common Kings will take the stage at Descanso on July 15, with tickets available in a variety of tiers. The <a href="https://www.catalinachamber.com/concerts/" target="_blank">Catalina Concert Series</a>, sponsored in part by <a href="http://www.catalinavacations.com/" target="_blank">Catalina Island Vacation Rentals</a> and <a href="http://www.4cire.com/" target="_blank">Catalina Island Real Estate</a>, brings family-friendly, free concerts to Wrigley Stage. Overlooking Avalon Harbor, the concerts also include a beer garden and dancing in the street. Upcoming concerts include a Rolling Stones tribute on July 29 and an ABBA tribute on August 26.</p>