Fireworks have been synonymous with Independence Day celebrations from the very beginning. John Adams even said he hoped the anniversary of independence would be marked for years to come by “bonfires” and “illuminations”. Well, they certainly have. Here are our favorite places in the city and around to sit back and enjoy the wonderful 4th of July fireworks:
1. San Diego Bay
The Big Bay Boom fireworks show is California’s largest firework show. The show is displayed from Four barges on San Diego Bay. You and your family will be able to see it from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero, and Seaport Village/Coronado Landing. The show starts at 9 PM, and we recommend you bring a comfy lawn chair, friends, and a whole lot of snacks. The show is of course free.
P.S.: Keep in mind that current construction along Harbor Drive may cause traffic delays.
2. Coronado 4th of July fireworks
There will be a few 4th of July celebrations in Coronado, like a parade down Orange Ave. (10 AM), patriotic concerts, and fireworks over Glorietta Bay – from 9 PM – near Stingray Point. The local tip is to watch the fireworks from the golf course, and not to drive due to traffic – walk or bike instead.
3. Santee
Santee Salutes will have food vendors, a concert, and a patriotic ceremony which will start at 6 PM. There will be free shuttles from the Costco Parking lot (101 Town Center Pkwy) to the event from 3:00 to 11:00 PM. It is important to note that if you drive, you will need to purchase parking in advance., which costs $10 You should also arrive by 8 PM to get there in time and comfortably watch the 4th of July fireworks show at 9 PM.
4. San Marcos
San Marcos Fireworks Extravaganza will again host a show from Bradley Park. Entertainment begins at 5 PM, and the 4th of July fireworks will light up the sky at 9 PM. Expect live music, carnival games, jumpers and food vendors. Bring a chair or a blanket with you. San Marcos show is funded through donations, so head to their website if you’d like to support it.
5. Oceanside
Oceanside Fireworks Show will actually celebrate a day early with a fireworks and drone display on July 3th at 9PM. The show takes place at the SoCal Soccer Complex at El Corazon. There will be fun-for-the-whole family activities, food vendors, and a DJ prior to the show. Bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on and enjoy.
6. SeaWorld 4th of July fireworks
We associate SeaWorld with summer fireworks already, so naturally, we’re also about to have a show on Independence Day. The extended display will take place on July 4 from 9:30 PM, but there are special Patriotic light shows every day between July 3 and 6. It’s free to see within the park with admission, but of course, you can enjoy it from other spots in San Diego. Check out Fiesta Island, Shelter Island, Harbor Island or Bay Park.
7. Fireworks Spectacular at Del Mar
The San Diego County Fair is in full swing at Del Mar Fairgrounds, and on the 4th, the night will end with wonderful fireworks from the Corona Grandstand Stage. Be there at 9 PM! General admission if you plan on standing is free, or you can reserve a paid seat for the extravaganza.
8. Vista
City of Vista 4th of July Celebration will take place in Brengle Terrace Park. The fireworks will start at 9 PM, and the Moonlight Amphitheatre opens at 5 PM – tickets are $5. You’ll get a chair at the entrance, for the amphitheater. The Cassie B Project will sing your favorite top 40 hits at 7:35 PM.
9. El Cajon 4th of July fireworks
The City of El Cajon will host fireworks at 9 PM, at Kennedy Park. Other free activities will be available, such as train rides (between 3 -7 PM), arts and crafts, and family games. There’ll also be a DJ to keep the party spirit on.
10. Carlsbad
Legoland’s celebration will be held on July 4th: The Red, White, & Boom! will feature a dance party, a scavenger hunt, lawn games, and of course, an impressive fireworks show, that you can watch through 3D viewing glasses, for that extra special effect. All activities are included in the normal admission price.
11. Rancho Bernardo
Ranch Bernardo’s “Keep the spirit alive” celebrations occur throughout the day in Webb Park and the evening fireworks celebration takes place at Rancho Bernardo High School, at 9 PM. There’ll be a parade, live entertainment, food trucks, and even a motor show.
12. Ramona 4th of July fireworks
Ramona will host its annual family picnic and fireworks show at Olive Pierce Middle School. There’ll be plenty of food vendors to keep those bellies full, live entertainment, face painting, cornhole, and other fun activities. The lights show will take place between 9 – 9:15 PM. Bring blankets or chairs – admission is free.
13. La Jolla drone show
Looking for a unique way to celebrate the 4th, without the noise? La Jolla hosts a free, eco-friendly drone show lighting up the sky at 9 PM on July 4. Over 500 drones will soar above La Jolla Shores in a stunning, choreographed light display that’s pet-friendly. The best views are from Kellogg Park, but you’ll also catch the show from La Jolla Shores Hotel, Beach Club, and even La Jolla Cove this year.
14. Imperial Beach 4th of July celebrations
This 4th of July celebration is held annually on the beachfront and and Portwood Pier Plaza – located at 10 Evergreen Avenue. There’ll be live music from 1 PM on, with IB Waves Band and the Marine Band – the fireworks show starts at 9 PM.
15. Escondido
The City of Escondido Independence Day Celebration fireworks usually start at 9 PM. Though Escondido won’t have its traditional event, we believe there will still be fireworks, launched from the Woodward Avenue parking lot. Grape Day Park will be open past dusk with traditional regulations in place, which means no dogs, no BBQs and no alcohol.
Disclaimer: this event is not 100% yet confirmed.
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