There are a lot of things to do in San Diego and the surrounding regions during the Fourth of July weekend including many fireworks show spread up and down the coast. These are my top five things to do in San Diego during the Fourth of July weekend and many of them can be done after spending a day at the beach.
Big Bay Boom Fireworks Show – July 4th
Location: Various locations around San Diego Bay
Cost: Free
Time: 9pm
The fireworks show in the San Diego bay is considered the largest show of its kind in the western United States. It’s also one of the most logistially complex firework shows as it spans four locations and last nearly 20 minutes. There are numerous locations where you can see the show including Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North/South Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Coronado Landing, Point Loma, Liberty Station, Little Italy, Downtown hotels, and even by boat! No matter how you choose to watch the show, make sure to tune into the music simulcast of the show on THE MIGHTY 109 AM or MAX FM 105.7.
Sea to Shining Sea Fireworks – July 4th
Location: SeaWorld San Diego/ Mission Bay and Beaches
Time: 9:45pm
This jaw-dropping show will illuminate SeaWorld’s skyline and captivate guests with its spectacular display of colorful flames and twinkling sparks. Prior to the show enjoy live music and entertainment for all ages.
Star Spangled Pops – July 1-3
Location: Embarcadero Marina Park South
Cost: $20-$85
Purchase Tickets: HERE
Time: 7:30pm
There is no better Fourth of July event than celebrating America’s birthday with the San Diego Symphony conducted by Matthew Garbutt! This all-American program features hits from movies, Broadway tunes and popular music, along with a military salute and a grand fireworks finale.
Historic Old Town Fourth of July – July 4th
Location: Old Town
Time: 11am
Jump back in time to see how early San Diegans would have celebrated Independence Day in the 1800’s through games, period clothing, demonstrations, music, and dance. The activities begin at 11 am with a brass band followed by the town patriotic speeches then a flag raising. Don’t miss out on the Fourth of July Parade which will march around the plaza. There will even be day an egg toss, cow chip throwing, and cherry pit spitting.The fun at Old Town’s Fourth of July Celebration will conclude with a pie eating contest.
San Diego County Fair – Through July 4th
Location: Located at the Del Mar Fairgrounds; 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Cost: $8-$15
The San Diego County Fair is the largest fair in California with an attendance each year at over one million visitors. It began back in 1890 as an agricultural fair and has now morphed into a full fair filled with animal and ag exhibits as well as commercial spaces. The fair also hosts numerous concerts and has all kinds of carnival rides and animals. This is the last weekend for the fair so if you want to go this year it’s your last chance.