Watch California's largest fireworks show overlooking San Diego Bay during the annual Big Bay Boom. Beginning at 9pm (so it's plenty dark outside), fireworks are launched from four barges in the bay, which can be seen from many miles away. Don't be surprised to see lawnchairs and tailgates set up for viewing parties starting early in the morning. Tune in to radio station 101.5 KGB for accompanying Americana music. The best vantage points are Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Coronado Ferry Landing, along the Embarcadero or in the Marina District downtown. Of course watching them from a boat in the harbor isn't too shabby either.
July is one of the best times to be in San Diego. The gray, gloomy clouds (actually a thick marine layer) present throughout May and June have finally dissipated, but the summer temps usually haven't spiked yet. There's good reason this is peak tourist season in America's Finest City as out-of-towners descend upon the city's beaches and numerous things to do outside.
San Diego also has one of the largest concentrations of U.S. Navy personnel in the world and is home to the Navy's Pacific Fleet, making it an extremely patriotic city year-round, but especially on the 4th of July. Red, white and blue are always in season here, particularly near the military bases located in Coronado, Point Loma, Miramar, Oceanside and beyond.
Perhaps best of all, San Diego is home to California's largest fireworks show, known as the Big Bay Boom. While it can be seen from several parts of the city, the show is only one of many taking place throughout San Diego County to mark the holiday. In addition to fireworks this weekend, you can have fun at an Independence Day parade, theh San Diego County Fair, an MLB baseball game, and a pop-up social club. Don your loudest stars and stripes-themed outfit and plan your perfect 4th of July with family and friends—from sunrise to sunset—with our detailed guide below. Happy Birthday, America!
