The Port of San Diego invites the public to commemorate Independence Day with the Big Bay Boom, set to illuminate the skyline of San Diego Bay with an impressive fireworks display. The event is scheduled for 9 p.m. on Friday, July 4, 2025.
“The Port of San Diego is excited to welcome thousands of people to the waterfront for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration,” stated Chair Danielle Moore of the Board of Port Commissioners. “The Big Bay Boom is a tradition that lights up our skyline, supports local businesses, and brings our community together along our beautiful San Diego Bay.”
For those interested in attending the Big Bay Boom, popular viewing locations include Shelter Island, Spanish Landing Park, Harbor Island, Embarcadero Marina Parks North & South, Seaport Village, César Chávez Park, and Coronado Ferry Landing. To enhance the experience, attendees are encouraged to tune into the musical simulcast on 91X FM for the full effect. Additionally, boaters have the opportunity to watch the fireworks display from the water while maintaining a 1,000-foot safety zone around the barges.
Given the event’s immense popularity, attendees are advised to plan accordingly, as parking and viewing areas are expected to fill up quickly. Utilizing public transportation or ride-sharing services is recommended. On July 4, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) will expand train, trolley, and bus service, featuring their “Friends Ride Free” promotion for the day. Key train and trolley stations located near prime viewing spots include County Center/Little Italy, Santa Fe Depot, One America Plaza, Seaport Village, Convention Center, and Gaslamp Quarter.
Parking is complimentary on July 4 at Port of San Diego parking meters and pay stations near the waterfront, but strict time limits will still be enforced. Visitors can conveniently reserve parking spaces in advance using the ParkWhiz or SpotHero apps for nearby lots and garages.
Post-fireworks traffic is anticipated to be heavy, and attendees are urged to exercise patience and allow extra time for exiting the area.
To ensure a safe and family-oriented environment during the Big Bay Boom, several safety reminders have been outlined. Possession of open alcoholic beverages, as well as smoking and vaping, is prohibited along the waterfront and in Port parks. Moreover, new permits for drones and other unmanned aircraft systems will not be approved, and their use around the event is banned.
Boaters planning to view the fireworks from the water should exercise caution and pay attention to the volunteer patrol boats displaying flashing yellow lights, which are positioned to enforce the 1,000-foot perimeter safety zones around the fireworks barges. All boaters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the ABCs of California Boating for a safe experience.
In February, the California Coastal Commission implemented new stipulations for the Port to host the Big Bay Boom and other fireworks shows along the San Diego Bay waterfront. As champions of environmental sustainability, the Port is committed to meeting these new requirements and implementing best practices designed to minimize the environmental impact on the bay and its wildlife before, during, and after the event.
These practices include conducting sound and wildlife monitoring reports, performing water quality testing, and ensuring thorough debris cleanup following the event. The Port is dedicated to exploring sustainable alternatives for future firework shows.
Attendees and boaters can further support these environmental efforts by taking responsibility for their trash at parks, beaches, and viewing locations. Additionally, boaters are encouraged to avoid anchoring within eelgrass habitats, as these sensitive areas can be easily damaged by boat anchors and propellers. Eelgrass is crucial for the survival of juvenile fish, seabirds, and other marine life.
image source from：https://coronadotimes.com/news/2025/06/16/port-of-san-diegos-big-bay-boom-to-light-the-sky-on-fourth-of-july/
