Independence Day is around the corner and across San Diego County, the skies will glow with patriotic, public displays of fireworks. Here’s our list — and a map — of where to see those spectacular sparks come Mon., July 4. 🎆
- The Big Bay Boom | 9 p.m. | San Diego Bay (viewing locations vary) | Free | The iconic fireworks show across four barges over San Diego Bay is a summertime staple — and the largest fireworks show in California. Prime waterfront viewing spots include Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North + South Embarcadero, and the Coronado Ferry Landing. 🌊
Pro tips: The viewing locations fill up quickly, so get there early + bring chairs. Also, consider using public transit because parking is always at a premium for this large-scale event. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System will add extra trolley service for the Big Bay Boom across all three lines; these stations are near viewing locations: County Center/Little Italy, Santa Fe Depot, America Plaza, Seaport Village, Convention Center + Gaslamp Quarter. Oh, and friends ride free with a fare-paying rider. 🚊
- Santee Salutes | 2-10 p.m. | Town Center Community Park East | Free | This family-friendly community festival ends with a patriotic fireworks display.
- Fourth of July Fireworks | 6-10 p.m. | Poway High School, 15500 Espola Rd. | $5 | After a day at the Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration at Old Poway Park, pop over to this community gathering, with music, games, and fireworks at 9 p.m.
Lake Murray Fireworks + Music Fest | 11 a.m.-9 p.m. | Lake Murray Park | Free | Another East County spot for a patriotic community celebration — with fireworks starting at 9 p.m.
Over in the East County, the Santee Salutes fireworks are a laid-back option. | Photo via Monica Garske + SDtoday
- The Spirit of the Fourth | 6-9 p.m. | Bernardo Heights Middle School, Rancho Bernardo | $20 | Enjoy daytime community events like a fair + parade at Webb Park, then fireworks at 9 p.m. at the middle school.
- Independence Day in Chula Vista | 9 p.m. | Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center | Free | Up to 5,000 attendees can watch this Fourth of July fireworks show from inside the center; gates open at 7 p.m. Bring chairs + blankets.
Fireworks Extravaganza | 9 p.m. | Del Mar Fairgrounds | The San Diego County Fair wraps up its 2022 season with Fourth of July fireworks. Pro tip: Spend $20 per person and reserve a seat in the Grandstand for this show — and this price includes same-day admission into the final day of the fair.
The Fourth of July fireworks at the San Diego County Fair also serve as the grand finale to close out the fair season. | Photo via San Diego County Fair
- Glorietta Bay Fireworks | 9 p.m. | Coronado (near Stingray Point) | Free | Watch the island light up in red, white + blue. Pro tip: According to the locals, you can see this show from the Coronado Municipal Golf Course.
Escondido Independence Day Concert + Fireworks | 5-9 p.m. | Great Green at Grape Day Park | Free (or grab a VIP ticket for $65) | Country music singer Lorrie Morgan performs, followed by the Third Marine Aircraft Wing Band — and then, the fireworks.
San Diego County has fireworks aplenty this Fourth of July. | Photo via Monica Garske + SDtoday
- El Cajon Fireworks | 9 p.m. | Kennedy Park | Free | Another option for holiday flair in San Diego’s East County.
- Red, White + Boom! | 6-9 p.m. | Bradley Park | Free | Carnival games, bouncy houses + food vendors fill the North County park before the big, patriotic sky show.
- Vista’s Independence Day Celebration | 7 a.m.-9 p.m. | Brengle Terrace Park | $30 for parking | The Moonlight Amphitheatre opens at 5 p.m. ($5 for admission) and live music starts at 7:35 p.m., followed by fireworks.
- Ramona July 4th Picnic + Fireworks Show | 4-9 p.m. | Olive Peirce Middle School | Free | Bring your chairs + blankets for this fireworks show on the campus’ back field.
- Oceanside Fireworks Celebration | Sun., July 3 | 9 p.m. | SoCal Soccer Complex at El Corazon | Free | Mark this on the calendar for the day before the Fourth: A patriotic fireworks display that also celebrates the 134th anniversary of the City of Oceanside’s incorporation.
- Drone Light Show | 9 p.m. | Pier Plaza | Free | The night sky lights up in Imperial Beach with a display from Verge Aero, preceded by a performance from the Marine Corps Band at 7:30 p.m.
Fireworks safety
Reminder: The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department says consumer fireworks are illegal in the City + County of San Diego, including sparklers, firecrackers, cherry bombs, bottle rockets, and even poppers. So, leave the shows to the pros.
Pet safety
Pet parents know that Fourth of July fireworks can be jarring for animals, so the San Diego Humane Society put together this handy guide of pet safety tips for the holiday. 🐶
