San Diego County is set to light up with fireworks, parades, festivals, and drone shows as communities across the region celebrate Independence Day. Here’s a roundup of some of the biggest events happening this year:
San Diego’s Big Bay Boom
- What: Fireworks
- Where: Multiple locations around San Diego Bay
- When: July 4 at 9 p.m.
- Price: Free
- Details: The largest fireworks show on the West Coast, with displays launching from four locations around San Diego Bay. Parking at Port of San Diego lots is free, but time limits are enforced. Arrive early for the best spots.
SeaWorld’s 4th of July Celebration
- What: Fireworks
- Where: SeaWorld San Diego
- When: July 3-6, shows at 9:50 p.m. (July 3, 5, 6), extended show at 9:30 p.m. on July 4
- Price: Included with admission, tickets start at $59.99
- Details: Patriotic soundtrack accompanies the fireworks during SeaWorld’s multi-day celebration.
La Jolla Shores 4th of July Drone Show
- What: Drone show
- Where: Kellogg Park
- When: July 4 at sundown
- Price: Free
- Details: A display of 500 synchronized drones above the shoreline, offering an eco-friendly alternative to fireworks.
Legoland’s Red, White & BOOM!
- What: Fireworks
- Where: Legoland Carlsbad
- When: July 4 at 8:30 p.m.
- Price: Included with admission, tickets start at $89
- Details: All-day celebration with special treats, family activities, a DJ dance party, and fireworks.
Fireworks Spectacular at the San Diego County Fair
- What: Fireworks
- Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds
- When: July 4 at 9 p.m.
- Price: $20-$25, includes fair admission
- Details: Fireworks show included with fair admission.
Oceanside Celebrations
- What: Independence Parade
- Where: SoCal Soccer Complex at El Corazon
- When: June 28 at 10 a.m.
- Price: Free
- What: Fireworks Show
- Where: SoCal Soccer Complex at El Corazon
- When: July 3 at 9 p.m.
- Price: Free
- What: Independence Day Flyover
- Where: Mission Pacific Hotel
- When: July 4 at 3:30 p.m.
- Details: Vintage aircraft flyover, rooftop party with BBQ, DJ, and more.
Escondido’s Independence Day Festival
- What: Festival and Fireworks
- Where: Grape Day Park and California Center for the Arts
- When: July 4 at 5 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m.
- Price: Free
Poway Celebrations
- What: Old Fashioned Fourth of July
- Where: Old Poway Park
- When: July 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Price: Free
- What: Fourth of July Fireworks
- Where: Poway High School Stadium and Poway Sportsplex
- When: July 4 at 9 p.m.
- Price: $5, children 11 and under free
- Details: Admission includes games, activities, DJ starting at 6 p.m. Fireworks also viewable from Lake Poway (parking $10 for non-residents).
Rancho Bernardo’s Spirit of the Fourth
- What: Parade and Fireworks
- Where: Webb Park and Rancho Bernardo High School
- When: July 4, parade at 3:30 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m.
- Price: $10 or $20 donation
- Details: Parade through Rancho Bernardo with day-long festivities at Webb Park and evening fireworks.
San Marcos’ Red, White and BOOM!
- What: Fireworks
- Where: Bradley Park
- When: July 4 at 9 p.m.
- Price: Free
- Details: Entertainment starts at 5 p.m. with live music, carnival games, jumpers, and food for sale.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to arrive early and plan ahead for parking and crowds.