July 4th 2025 in San Diego – Where to Celebrate: Top Events, Fireworks & Parades

Big Bay Boom is my absolute favorite fireworks display, even outside of San Diego!

Fireworks are shot off from 4 barges in San Diego Bay, simultaneously, making it a magnificent display of lights and sound. The show starts after the skies are dark, at 9:00pm, and there’s no cost for admission. It’s hard to look away from the skies, even for a second!

Our team at Go Visit San Diego agreed that this event may just be the ultimate 4th of July celebration in San Diego, so we’ve added it to our Complete Guide to All the Holidays in San Diego article, which is worth checking out if you want to stay abreast of all the fun activities happening in the area around the holidays!

Why It Made Our List

My family attends this fireworks display every year. It’s truly something special to witness, and the fact that it’s free makes planning even easier. Adding this to our list was a no-brainer!

Here’s a pro tip: watch it from a hill, say at Kate Sessions Park in Pacific Beach to view all four shows simultaneously. You’ll skip the traffic and parking is a breeze!

Where to Stay

A great place to rest your head after watching Big Bay Boom is the InterContinental San Diego. It’s located right on the waterfront, with beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows that create incredible views of the San Diego Bay.

SeaWorld San Diego is the area’s #2 most popular attraction, just after the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. The fireworks, part of SeaWorld San Diego Summer Spectacular event, starts at 9:30pm to end your evening. You can enjoy the 4th of July festivities at no additional cost with paid admission to the park.

SeaWorld San Diego is part of the Go City San Diego pass, which provides a cost-saving option to save on admission prices. Our discount code GVSD5OFF provides the best bang for your buck, so use it to purchase passes for your family before you arrive.

Why It Made Our List

If you’re a tourist looking for a fun way to spend the day or a local who hasn’t visited in a while, this is a fun spot to enjoy a full day with your family.

Bring the family to watch some shows, visit with the animals, and check out the 4th of July fireworks all on the same day.

Where to Stay

The Paradise Point Resort & Spa is a beautiful place to stay in Mission Bay, near SeaWorld San Diego. Rooms are spacious, and the tasty Barefoot Bar & Grill is right on-site.

I personally love Old Town San Diego, its Mexican heritage, the shops, and restaurants. It’s a little slice of San Diego history in our ever-growing city and a fun place to spend the day with the family. While I haven’t been to the 4th of July celebration at Old Town San Diego just yet, I’m actually thinking about spending the day there this year with my family.

Our team at Go Visit San Diego loves it and honestly you just have to visit Old Town San Diego once to understand how family-friendly and cool it is in the neighborhood. And that’s also why we decided to include it for 2025 as one of our ultimate holiday activities on our Complete Guide to All the Holidays in San Diego article.

This one goes from 11:00am – 3:00pm with free admission!

Why It Made Our List

Old Town San Diego is a cultural mecca with eclectic restaurants, historical sites, and lots to explore. The preserved historic buildings and the museum represent the town’s beginnings. The open-air atmosphere makes it relaxed and enjoyable for families.

Where to Stay

The Best Western Plus Hacienda Hotel Old Town is an economical place to stay and just a 10-minute walk to the Old Town Trolley Station. Rooms are comfortable, and there’s a great Mexican restaurant on-site.

If you’re looking for a fireworks display close to Downtown San Diego, this one’s a great option. It’s just a ferry ride away plus they will also have the 76th annual Independence Day parade starting at 10:00am.

The day is filled with special events with highlights like the Frog-X Aerial Demonstration on the Coronado Golf Course 16th Fairway at 2:00pm to a Dance Concert by the Detroit Underground at Spreckels Park at 5:45pm.

The ultimate highlight for my kids for sure though is the July 4th fireworks show on the Coronado Golf Course scheduled for 9:00pm

Admission is free!

Why It Made Our List

The Coronado 4th of July parade starts early, so it’s great for families who want to make a full day of it. Our team also loves the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere mixed with the traditional charm of this event.

Where to Stay

Check out the Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton for luxurious and very comfortable accommodations.

Located along the Pacific coastline, with exceptional service and Victorian charm, The Del is a historical hotel and one of the most famous places to stay in San Diego. Our team at Go Visit San Diego recommends you try it at least once!

I’m not much of a runner myself, but if I were, this is a race I would enter in!

The kids race, 12K and 5K are 52-years-young. Runners of all skill levels show off their red, white, and blue spirit as they participate and cross the finish line. The entry fee to run starts at $60 but it’s absolutely free to attend if you’d rather just cheer on the runners in the race!

Why It Made Our List

This list addition differs from the typical parades and fireworks displays, but it’s a great way for families to show their patriotic spirit and stay active. The race goes from 7:00am – 9:00am, so there’s plenty of time to participate before the parades begin and surely before the firework displays in the evening!

Where to Stay

The 1906 Lodge is about a 5-minute walk from Coronado Beach. The historic site is cozy and inviting, with great room amenities.

4th of July drone shows are impressive and environmentally friendly. This one in La Jolla Shores includes over 500 synchronized drones, creating a spectacular light display 350 feet above the ocean.

I personally have only seen one of these drone shows and I was blown away with how they can not only make 3D art in the sky, but they also can make it move. If you’ve never seen a drone show, the La Jolla 4th of July Drone Light Show could be the perfect chance for you and your family! Also, it’s free to attend!

Why It Made Our List

This impressive show projects colorful overwater, but there’s no loud noise, smoke, or debris. It’s a fantastic option for family members who are hypersensitive to sound.

Where to Stay

The 4-star Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton is conveniently located near the event. You can walk to the La Jolla Shores beach and not have to worry about parking.

Furnished balconies also offer spectacular views of the water and as a Hilton property, you can be sure your stay will be comfortable.

LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, part of the Go City San Diego pass, is a top 3 attraction in San Diego and fantastic for your youngest family members. The stand-alone aquarium park called SEA LIFE Aquarium is also a hit with kids. For the 4th of July, activities start at 10:00am with a slightly earlier fireworks display set for 8:30pm.

Why It Made Our List

If you have younger children, LEGOLAND California will make them smile! Their Fourth of July events offer a day full of fun and an evening of fireworks, all included with the price of admission!

Where to Stay

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is close by and ideal for families. My wife loves the on-site spa and wellness center.

You could also choose the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel, a themed property connected to the park that is an absolute hit with kids!

The all-ages San Diego County fair and fireworks spectacular in Del Mar is filled with fun carnival rides and a colorful 4th of July fireworks display (included in the price of admission) to end your day. Get to the Grandstand early to grab a seat for the 9:00pm booming fireworks display!

Why It Made Our List

The San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds is one of the most popular summer events in all of San Diego. The 4th of July is the perfect time to visit as they present their impressive fireworks display.

Where to Stay

I suggest you check out the DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar if you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay close to the Del Mar fairgrounds. The typically warm summer afternoons in San Diego make the pool an inviting addition to this hotel.

For a great way to warm up for the 4th of July events, check out the Oceanside Independence Parade on June 28th at 10:00am. And YES that date is correct! The City of Oceanside decided it was best so the Oceanside Police Department could be free on the 4th and participants and volunteers could spend the Fourth of July with their families.

So with that in mind, cheer on the cars, marching bands, and floats as they come by, a week early! I recommend getting there before 10:00am to secure the best spot!

Why It Made Our List

My family loves the idea of a fun parade before the busier 4th of July weekend, and this one is free!

Where to Stay

SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Oceanside/Downtown is near the parade route. If you’re planning a weekend stay, you can also check out the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, less than a 30-minute drive away in Escondido.

Get a jump on the 4th of July festivities in San Diego with Oceanside fireworks the night before. The show is just as impressive as other Independence Day fireworks, fun, and an all-ages event. Gates open at 4:00pm, and the fireworks start at 9:00pm all of July 3rd.

I once again recommend getting there early to secure the best seats.

Why It Made Our List

Most of the Independence Day events on our list take place on July 4th, but our team at Go Visit San Diego felt it appropriate to offer some options for people who might want to extend the fun or aren’t available to attend 4th of July fireworks in San Diego. If this is you, the Oceanside neighborhood is the place for you!

Where to Stay

The Mission Pacific Hotel, part of JdV by Hyatt is one of my kids' favorites. It’s spacious and spirited, and my wife and I enjoy escaping to the rooftop bar for a nightcap.

If you’re looking for all-ages fun in Chula Vista, check out the fireworks spectacular at the Athletic Training Center on July 4th. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs, and get there early as gates open at 7:00pm. The show starts at 9:00pm, and food trucks will be on-site.

Why It Made Our List

With free parking and free admission, this is a budget-friendly 4th of July celebration in San Diego that’s great for all ages.

Where to Stay

Comfortable, colorful, and quiet, the Rambler Motel is a fantastic budget-friendly option in Chula Vista. I love the cozy outdoor fireplace, and the luggage storage is convenient if you need a place to store your stuff after check-out.

I have not seen the fireworks at the USS Midway, but I LOVE the USS Midway! It’s an impressive piece of history, and their Independence Day event often sells out. It’s sold out this year, but it’s worth the time to get a jump on planning for July 4th, 2026!

Why It Made Our List

Viewing fireworks and enjoying live entertainment aboard a US aircraft carrier is something everyone should experience at least once.

The event is included in the price of admission, and the USS Midway in the Embarcadero is part of the Go City San Diego pass, so you can use discount code GVSD5OFF to make this a budget-friendly 4th of July celebration for the family.

Where to Stay

Comfortable and conveniently located, the SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront is one of my family’s favorite options in the downtown area. I love the city and ocean views, and it’s close to the San Diego International Airport (SAN), a plus for out of town travelers.

If you were to stay at the InterContinental San Diego you can also potentially watch the show from your room and surely the rooftop pool. The InterContinental San Diego’s rooftop pool and bar are awesome!

I love a great 4th of July pool party on a warm San Diego evening. This one is adults only, 21+, at the beautiful Andaz San Diego Rooftop bar with a DJ playing all your favorite tunes. Join the fun on July 3rd from 4:00pm until midnight with tickets starting at $25 per person.

Why It Made Our List

While the family-friendly events are always fun, we wanted to include an adults-only 4th of July option on the list. The signature drinks and endless Instaworthy moments make this one a top pick.

Where to Stay

Stay on-site at the Andaz San Diego for an easy jaunt back to your room when the fun ends at midnight.

As a kid, I used to attend our local community 4th of July parades. Those are amazing memories!

The Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade offers that same local appeal. It’s been around for 250 years and always draws a large crowd. The parade starts on the 4th at 10:00am and is free to attend.

Why It Made Our List

With vehicles ranging from lawn mowers and scooters to pick-up trucks, music, marching bands, and good old fashion fun, this free event is exactly the type of small-town, family-friendly 4th of July parade you think of when you picture a traditional Independence Day celebration.

Where to Stay

You’ll have to drive a bit to get to the parade, but the Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection By Hilton is a cool place to stay with a great atmosphere.

The rooftop swimming pool also offers incredible views and common spaces are modern, clean, and inviting as well!

The vibe in IB is second to none. It’s a fantastic place to hang out with the family if you’re south of the city, and the views are also incredible.

This would be quite the spot to watch some fireworks! As the sky lights up, you can tune in to KyXy96.5 and listen to a synced soundtrack.

Why It Made Our List

The free 4th of July celebration in Imperial Beach is an annual event that draws large crowds and incorporates a drone show with live fireworks displays. Pre-show live entertainment adds to the fun.

Where to Stay

Check out the Pier South Resort, Autograph Collection. This luxurious beachfront resort is so close to the show that you might even be able to watch the fireworks from your balcony!

I love the quaint feel of Julian, and I especially love the area’s apples! It’s also a fantastic location for a local parade which kicks off at 9:30am on the 4th.

While you’re in the area, check out the Julian Beer Company. I love the beer selection, and my kids think the pizza is top-notch.

Why It Made Our List

Small-town 4th of July celebrations are always special, and Julian offers that small-town feel without having to officially leave the San Diego area.

Where to Stay

I highly recommend staying at the Julian Gold Rush Hotel if you’re in the area. The historic setting is special, and the garden terrace views are lovely this time of year.

The Old-Fashioned Fourth & Fireworks in Poway combines small-town charm with impressive, booming fireworks. I love that it’s free to attend and family-friendly. The free festival starts at 10:00am and goes until 4:00pm with the fireworks scheduled for 9:00pm.

Why It Made Our List

If you’re looking for a unique San Diego experience, the 4th of July festival is a bit different from other celebrations in San Diego. It features a turn-of-the-20th-century vibe with western reenactors, old-fashioned games, and railroad displays.

Where to Stay

The Holiday Inn San Diego Miramar - MCAS Miramar Area is budget-friendly and family-friendly with a clean and comfortable atmosphere. My family enjoys the American cuisine at their on-site restaurant.

Head to the Santee Salutes 4th of July festival for carnival rides, a lively kids zone, and, of course, fireworks. The festival starts at 2:00pm, with live music at 6:30pm and fireworks at 9:00pm. It’s free to attend.

Why It Made Our List

Santee Salutes offers a little bit of something for everyone. It’s family-friendly and a great all-day Independence Day celebration.

Where to Stay

Check out the San Diego Marriott Mission Valley for their clean and comfortable rooms and close proximity to all the fun at Town Center Community Park East.