Fourth of July Events in San Diego
Celebrate America’s birthday with good ole BBQ, parades, music and a great view of one of San Diego’s many fireworks displays as the climax to the festivities.
San Diego County Fair
With events all day long, the climactic fireworks display at the fair is only part of the fun. Attendees can participate in pie eating contests, patriotic floral contests, patriotic costume contests, and listen to guest speakers. At 6 p.m., head to the grandstands for the Frog X Parachute Jump Team and the 1,100 square-foot-flag. Enjoy a hometown heroes parade, performances by the Navy Band Southwest, a performance by Dana Carvey and the fireworks display at 9 p.m. The fair is open until midnight, leaving plenty of time for shopping, snacking, touring exhibits and more. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.1161. sdfair.com
Hornblower
Grab one of the most unique vantage points for the fireworks aboard a Hornblower dinner cruise. With boarding available at either 6 or 6:30 p.m., guests will enjoy champagne, an elaborate dinner buffet, DJ entertainment, panoramic views and a front seat to the Big Bay Boom fireworks show sponsored by the Port of San Diego. 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego Marina, 619.686.8700. hornblower.com
Big Bay Boom
Catch the largest fireworks show in the county with fireworks launched from four barges strategically placed around North San Diego Bay. Best viewing spots are Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the Embarcadero area and Seaport Village/Coronado Landing. bigbayboom.com
Sea to Shining Sea
SeaWorld keeps the celebration going after most the firework displays have finished. Set to start around 10:10 p.m., the park will light up the sky with their “Celebrate the Wonder” presentation. The summer offers extended hours at the park with nighttime shows the entire family can enjoy. 500 SeaWorld Dr., Mission Bay, 800.257.4268. seaworldparks.com
OB Pier Fireworks Display
After a day of celebrating with family and friends, grab a picnic blanket and enjoy the fireworks display as they’re launched from the end of the Ocean Beach Pier. oceanbeachsandiego.com
Coronado Independence Day Celebration
Independence day starts at 7 a.m. for those participating in the Crown City Classic run at Tidelands Park. Spreckels Park hosts Art in the Park as well as concerts throughout the day by the Coronado Community Concert Band. The Independence Day Parade salutes bystanders with the theme of “America’s Spirit” and at 9 p.m., enjoy the fireworks display over Glorietta Bay. ecoronado.com
Pier Pressure Pre-July 4th Yacht Party (July 3)
July 3. Start the party a night early and set sail aboard the Inspiration Yacht for the Pier Pressure Yacht Party for an extended evening of celebrations. The cruise includes three decks, six DJs and two floors of music and dancing including appearances by Scotty Boy and DJ Diamond. Check-in time is 9:30 p.m. and cruising is from 10:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 1800 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego Marina, sandiegonightlife.com
California Center for the Arts
Join 20,000 patriotic festival-goers for the 52nd annual Independence Day Festival & Fireworks at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido. The free community event features rocking live music by Jimmy & Enrique, Mrs. Jones’ Revenge and the Morgan Leigh Band, food vendors, and games for everyone to enjoy. The festivities will conclude with a special performance by Camp Pendleton’s 1st Marine Division Band and a dazzling fireworks display. Grape Day Park, 321, North Broadway, Escondido, 760.839.4138. artcenter.org
Kitchen 4140 Block Party
To celebrate the nation’s birthday in All-American fashion, Kitchen 4140 is teaming up with its forthcoming neighbor Bitter Brothers Brewing Company to transform the back lot into a BBQ Block Party. Chef Metzger offers up his best barbecue recipes and craft beers never before tasted in San Diego. The restaurant’s location atop a canyon with also provide a stellar view of San Diego’s Fourth of July fireworks display. The menu will include standouts like Maryland-inspired crab cakes, Kansas City style ribs, smoked brisket, pulled pork, German potato salad, mixed berry cooler and coconut bread pudding. $65/pp. 4140 Morena Blvd., Bay Ho, 858.483.4140. kitchen4140.com
