Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom Set to Dazzle for the Nation’s 250th Birthday

New start time - 9:15 p.m.

The West Coast's largest synchronized fireworks show is ready for launch on the 250th birthday of the United States. A spectacular evening of pyrotechnics is set for 9:15 p.m. on Independence Day, Saturday, July 4, 2026. Fireworks will launch simultaneously from four barges across San Diego Bay, creating a dancing display of color and light that is professionally choreographed and synced to a musical simulcast.

"The Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom is our region's signature and most anticipated annual Independence Day tradition, and we're eager to put on a great event as we celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary," said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. "Gather your friends and family, grab a comfy lawn chair, and join us for an incredible evening on San Diego Bay."

The Port of San Diego is pleased to host the 2026 Big Bay Boom in partnership with longtime executive producer Sandy Purdon and Fleet Week San Diego. This event will honor the service of our military personnel and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Port is also pleased to welcome Carnival Cruise Line as this year's official cruise line sponsor. Guests sailing over the holiday on Carnival Radiance, Carnival Firenze, and Carnival Luminosa will be able to view the fireworks show as the ships will be anchored near San Diego Bay. Pyro Spectaculars is the fireworks show producer. Pacific Maritime Group is providing tow services for the barges.

The Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom is the largest free annual public event on San Diego Bay. See below for more information or visit bigbayboom.com.

Where to Watch
The most popular areas are along Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero Marina Parks North & South, Seaport Village, the Port's park in Barrio Logan, and the Coronado Ferry Landing. For the full experience, listen to the musical simulcast on 91X FM (radio recommended over streaming). Boaters can also watch the event from the water while maintaining a 1,000-foot safety zone around the barges.

Those who can't make it in person can watch the live telecast beginning at 8 p.m. on Fox 5 San Diego and streaming on the free Fox 5 KUSI NOW app. Other Nexstar Media Group affiliates throughout the country will carry it live or recorded. Check local listings.

Getting There
The Big Bay Boom is extremely popular and parking, viewing areas, and boat launch ramps around San Diego Bay fill up quickly. Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead and utilize public transportation or ride share. MTS is offering expanded train, trolley and bus service on July 4 and their "Friends Ride Free" promotion will be in effect. Train/trolley stations located near prime fireworks viewing spots include County Center/Little Italy, Santa Fe Depot, One America Plaza, Seaport Village, Convention Center, and Gaslamp Quarter.

Parking is free on July 4 at Port of San Diego parking meters and pay stations along the waterfront, however, time limits will continue to be strictly enforced. Visitors can reserve a parking space in advance for nearby parking lots and garages using the SpotHero app.

Traffic is also anticipated to be heavy after the fireworks show - attendees are asked to be patient and allow for extra time to exit the area.

Safety Reminders
Attendees can help keep the Big Bay Boom safe and family friendly. The possession of open alcoholic beverages, smoking and vaping is prohibited along the waterfront and in Port parks. The Port will not approve new permits for drones and other unmanned aircraft systems, and use of these items is not allowed at and around the event.

Public safety is everyone's responsibility. If attendees see something out of place or someone behaving in an unusual manner, they are encouraged to report suspicious activity to a uniformed officer, call 911, or call the Port of San Diego Harbor Police non-emergency number at 619.686.6272.

Boaters interested in viewing the event on the water should be extra cautious and pay special attention to the volunteer patrol boats with flashing yellow lights. They will be positioned to ensure boaters do not get within the 1,000-foot perimeter safety zones around the four fireworks barges. All boaters are also encouraged to review the ABCs of California Boating.

Environmental Efforts
In 2025, the California Coastal Commission issued new requirements for the Port to be able to host the Big Bay Boom. As environmental champions, the Port is meeting these requirements and implementing best practices to help minimize the impacts on the bay and its wildlife before, during and after the event. This includes using more eco-friendly fireworks, conducting sound and wildlife monitoring and pre- and post-event water quality testing, and cleaning up debris from the bay and surrounding waterfront.

Big Bay Boom attendees and boaters can support these efforts by picking up their own trash at parks, beaches and other viewing locations. Boaters should be conscious of and avoid anchoring within eelgrass habitats as it can be easily damaged by boat anchors and propellers. Eelgrass is an important habitat for juvenile fish, seabirds, and other animals.