It’s not too late to make plans to be in San Diego on the 4th of July to celebrate the birth of our nation and to see one of the spectacular fireworks shows around town. Gather up the kids, or get together with your best travel buddies, and watch the San Diego skyline light up from San Diego Bay to Del Mar to South Bay and the inland communities. San Diego’s exciting pyrotechnic displays never disappoint and always go off with a bang! Here are just a few:
Annual Big Bay Boom
San Diego Bay, also known as “The Big Bay,” is fittingly home to the West Coast’s biggest and most fabulous fireworks extravaganza. Honoring San Diego’s rich military past and present, the Big Bay Boom is billed as “A Salute to the Military Families of our Service Heroes.” Prime viewing locations include Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero and Seaport Village along the bay, as well as the Coronado Ferry Landing in Coronado. Spectators can also view the show on Broadway Pier and the B Street Cruise Ship Terminal on downtown’s waterfront.
Fireworks start time: 9:00 PM
San Diego County Fair, “Game On”
The San Diego County Fair is themed “Game On” and runs mid-June through July 4 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. The fair comes to a close on Independence Day with one of the summer’s best fireworks displays. The evening festivities begin at 7:00 PM with the “Hometown Heroes Parade,” followed by a special tribute to the victims of 9/11 and a fireworks finale. Because the fair is already outside, there’s no better place to watch the show than from the fairgrounds.
Fireworks start time: 9:00 PM
Summer Nights at Sea World
When the sun goes down, SeaWorld heats up at night with a fantastic fireworks display – not just on the 4th of July, but all summer long. The display is set to the orchestral music of the Blue Horizons attraction, and colorful fireworks fill up the sky all around Mission Bay. Spend the day in the park, and in the evening, settle in for an impressive display of sparkle and excitement Shamu-style.
Fireworks start time: 9:30 PM
Coronado
Coronado has a full lineup of activities on July 4th starting with an annual Independence Day 15K Run-5K Run/Walk, an “America the Beautiful” parade, a concert at Spreckels Park and fireworks over San Diego Bay. For the best views, stakeout a spot near Glorietta Bay or Tidelands Park along the waterfront.
Fireworks start time: 9:00 PM
Ocean Beach Pier
Ocean Beach is one of San Diego’s most laid-back beaches and the fireworks show is a favorite among locals. The fireworks are launched from the end of the pier, which is also one of the longest piers in Southern California extending a good ½ mile out to sea. Best viewing is from the beach.
Fireworks start time: 9:00 PM
Imperial Beach Pier
Imperial Beach fireworks show is synchronized with the Big Bay Boom extravaganza at San Diego Bay. The day kicks-off with several bands playing country, jazz, the blues and other music, leading up to a spectacular fireworks display after dark. Best viewing is from the beach.
Fireworks start time: 9:00 PM
The Imperial Beach Fireworks have been canceled for 2013.
El Cajon
Experience an old-fashioned 4th of July at Kennedy Park in El Cajon, which is located in San Diego’s East County. The day starts with a centennial-themed picnic with food, carnival games, crafts, kiddie train rides and musical entertainment. In the evening, grab a blanket and find a spot at the park to watch the fireworks.
Fireworks start time: 9:00 PM
> Browse more 4th of July activities in San Diego
What do you plan on doing for 4th of July in San Diego?