SPOTLIGHT : BIG BANGS : Fireworks Shows Are Fewer for ’95 but Still Pack a Punch

Is it the fact that the Fourth falls on a day of the week less than conducive to celebrating? Or perhaps it’s the bankruptcy squeeze--has enough county money gone up in smoke for the time being?

Whatever the reason, there are fewer big community fireworks shows than in years past. Big cities that won’t be holding their regular displays this year include Westminster, Brea, Orange and Costa Mesa. Dana Point will hold its show, but if you call for information, prepare to be hit up for a donation--we were.

Still, there are plenty of good opportunities to observe the Fourth with all the attendant spectacle at the traditional offshore shows (Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente) and at some of the enduring inland displays (Fullerton, Los Alamitos and others).

Disneyland will expand its usual summertime show; Knott’s Berry Farm will have a re-enactment of a Revolutionary War encampment in front of Independence Hall during the day, in addition to its sky show at night. The Angels are in town too, fireworks in tow, to play the Toronto Blue Jays.

A couple of Independence Day notes: The Fountain Valley Fiesta at Mile Square Regional Park opens Friday and continues through Tuesday, with carnival rides, games, food, entertainment and a big fireworks show Tuesday. Information: (714) 668-0542.

One big fireworks show comes early, on Saturday. The Pacific Symphony will celebrate “Stars and Stripes on Broadway” at Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre; the venue will open for picnicking at 6 p.m., with the concert at 8 p.m. and fireworks following. $13 to $49. Information: (714) 755-5799.

Finally, do-it-yourselfers out there should be aware that only five county cities allow legal “safe and sane” fireworks: Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Garden Grove, Santa Ana and Stanton.