On July 4th, we’ll celebrate the 243rdbirthday of the United States of America. And in San Diego County, we certainly have no shortage of celebrations to attend! From neighborhood block parties to parades to spectacular nighttime fireworks displays, it can be hard to know which events are worth your time and which ones you should skip. As a long-time resident of North County San Diego, my family and I have attended quite a few of San Diego’s annual events over the years. So I’ve put together this list of some of the best San Diego 4thof July events to attend with your family!
San Diego Big Bay Boom!
Enjoy the largest fireworks show in San Diego County! Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously around the Bay off of Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, Seaport Village, Embarcadero South, and the Coronado Ferry Landing. This spectacular show will not disappoint! You can view the show from all over Central San Diego County- including around Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, Downtown San Diego, Coronado Island, and so much more! Make sure you arrive early to find parking and secure your spot.
Fireworks Over La Jolla Cove
For more than twenty-five years, people have flocked to the coastline around La Jolla to enjoy the annual 4thof July fireworks show over the cove. The half-hour show begins promptly at 9pm. Parking in La Jolla is always difficult so allow plenty of time to find parking and get a spot. The best spots for viewing the fireworks are Ellen Browning Scripps Park, Coast Walk, and La Jolla Shores beach.
Fourth of July Sunset BBQ & Fireworks
Spend your holiday with a sunset BBQ at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar! The celebration is accompanied by live music from The John Stanley Band and a grand fireworks show on the lush Aria Lawns at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. This is a ticketed event so be sure to get your tickets in advance! Click here for more information.
San Diego County Fair 4th of July Celebration
Are fireworks your favorite part of the Fourth of July? Then head to the San Diego County Fair for a day full of fun topped off by an evening of fireworks! The nighttime show includes 3,600 aerial display counts, with 500 shells in the Grand Finale alone! This spectacular show starts at 9 pm – don’t miss out! Click here to get your tickets for the fair.
Rancho Santa Fe Annual 4th of July Parade & Picnic
Pack a few blankets and chairs for Rancho Santa Fe’s Annual 4th of July Parade and Picnic! The celebration will host live music, food, fun, and more! For more information about the event, click here.
Red, White and BOOM
Legoland California kicks off the summer with a Fourth of July celebration for the whole family! During the day enjoy picnic games, live performances, and opportunities for kids to meet their favorite Legoland friends and characters! The celebration lasts from 1- 9 pm, with fireworks beginning at 8:30 pm. Be sure to get your tickets in advance! Click here to buy.
Oceanside Independence Day Parade
Head to Oceanside on June 29th for the 25th Annual Oceanside Independence Parade! The Parade is made possible by the assistance of over 100 volunteers in the Oceanside community. The Parade marches up the Coast Highway from Wisconsin Street to the Civic Center with viewing available from the sidewalks. The parade begins at 10am. Click here for more information about the Parade.
What’s your favorite way to celebrate the 4thof July in San Diego? Leave me a comment below!
