With COVID-19 less of a threat this year than it was in 2020, many July 4th events and fireworks displays that were previously canceled due to the pandemic are set to go on this year—including in the San Diego area.

After many events were canceled or heavily changed to keep crowds from congregating last year, there will be some events back on the schedule for 2021, meaning that those in San Diego County can enjoy dazzling pyrotechnic displays lighting up the skies in a way they haven’t since 2019.

Check out what will be happening around San Diego (all times PT) below.

San Diego:

  • Big Bay Boom: The most popular show in the city, which takes place over the San Diego Bay, is back again as big as ever. The fireworks, which start at 9 p.m. and are free, will be launched off of four barges on the bay. Viewing locations include Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, Marina District, Coronado Ferry Landing and by boating on the water.
  • Seaworld San Diego: After canceling their show in 2020, Sea World is once again having their annual Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular at the San Diego Park. Viewing is free for those who have already paid for park tickets that day, and the show is set to be a 15-minute display set to a patriotic soundtrack.

Camp Pendleton:

  • July 4th Beach Day: The Marine Corps base will host a fireworks show and beach party for authorized patrons and their guests (it is open to military families), with the pyrotechnics set to begin at 9 p.m. The Beach Bash will also feature activities throughout the day, beginning at 6 a.m.

Carlsbad:

  • Legoland Red, White & Boom!: Like Sea World, the theme park was forced to cancel their show in 2020 while the park was not open, but once again, the show is set to go on for patrons of the amusement park on July 4. This will include a picnic, relay races, live performances, and of course, the fireworks.

Coronado:

  • Fireworks over Glorietta Bay: The show begins at 9 p.m. and revelers are encouraged to watch from either the golf course or Stringray Point. Driving is also discouraged due to traffic volume, with walking and biking encouraged instead.

Del Mar:

  • San Diego County Fair 4th Of July Celebration: The show begins at 9 p.m. and are choreographed to a soundtrack. Those at the fairgrounds will have a number of great vantage points to view the show, including reserved terrace seating on the 2nd and 4th levels of the Grandstand, Family Funville and the Fun Zone. Tickets can be purchased here.

El Cajon:

  • The city of El Cajon will launch fireworks at 9 p.m. from Kennedy Park. Festivities will actually begin at 1 p.m.

La Jolla:

  • La Jolla Cove 4th of July Fireworks: This event, at the La Jolla Cove Suites top floor deck, will feature a chef preparing BBQ food for guests, as well as cocktails, with fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. Tickets can be purchased for $100.00 here.

Mira Mesa:

  • Fireworks will be located at Mira Mesa High School in an event that is meant to help bring the community together once again after the pandemic forced the event’s cancellation last year. The show begins at 9 p.m.

Ocean Beach:

  • Fireworks off of Ocean Beach Pier: Free parking will be available in both the pier and main beach parking lots for those that wish to attend this show, which begins at 9 p.m. Those attending are encouraged to spend the day and picnic, swim, play in the sand and shop along Newport Avenue.

Poway:

Ramona:

  • Ramona July 4th Picnic And Fireworks: Festivities including food and other fun will begin at 4 p.m. at Olive Peirce Middle School, with fireworks beginning at 9 p.m.

Rancho Bernardo:

  • The Spirit Of The Fourth: Due to the pandemic, all events except for the fireworks show and nighttime entertainment are canceled. Those who wish to see the musical entertainment at 6 p.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m. should head to Rancho Bernardo High School. A suggested donation of $10/person or $20/family will also be present.

San Marcos:

  • San Marcos Fireworks Extravaganza: A display will take place at Bradley Park, though it is encouraged that residents try to enjoy the show from their homes and not gather for it. All other festivities are canceled as a precaution.

Santee:

  • Santee Salutes: The event, kicking off at 2 p.m. at Town Center Park East, will feature food vendors, a concert and a patriotic ceremony, with fireworks planned for 9 p.m.

Vista:

  • City of Vista Independence Day Celebration: Located at Brengle Terrace Park, this begins at 5 p.m. and features a BBQ dinner from 6:30-7:30 p.m., as well as fireworks at 9 p.m.
San Diego Fireworks
Pictured are the fireworks over Embarcadero Marina Park South in San Diego, California, July 20, 2016. Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
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