Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States and there isn’t a better place to celebrate than in San Diego! With events being hosted throughout San Diego county here are just a few options for you to consider!

San Diego Bay Dinner Cruises

Enjoy the fourth aboard Inspiration Hornblower with the best views of the fireworks over the bay! Enjoy a complimentary boarding drink, along with a large selection of food and beverages throughout the ship. You can enjoy the spectacular view of the harbor fireworks from the top deck while listening to music and dancing to a live DJ.

What You Get: – 3-hour cruise on a comfortable yacht on San Diego Bay Sensational food stations – Wine list and cocktails available for purchase – Dj Entertainer for Music requests and dancing – Views that change with the courses – Boarding cocktail in a souvenir glass – Incredible fireworks show over the Bay.

For more information visit: Hornblower.com

Independence Day in Grape Park- Escondido

Escondido’s annual July 4th fireworks display in Grape Day Park has delighted young and old alike with its spectacular displays and wholesome family entertainment. It has become an intrinsic part of our shared community heritage and has been instrumental in encouraging patriotism and instilling a love of our great nation into the hearts of our children. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket and head to Grape Day Park on July 4 for a fun-filled, star-spangled celebration! Enjoy a variety of free entertainment, including musical performances, magicians, baton twirlers, children’s arts projects, old-fashioned contests and, of course, fireworks. A variety of refreshments will be available for purchase.

Red, White and BOOM at Legoland!

LEGOLAND® California kicks off summer with a star-spangled Fourth of July celebration, “Red, White and BOOM!” The awe-inspiring fireworks show begins at 8:30 pm and blends patriotic music with dazzling pyrotechnics. Throughout the day, kids of all ages can participate in all-American family picnic games like water-balloon tosses, burlap sack races and paper airplane contests. The celebration also includes live musical performances at 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm by some of the hottest children’s entertainment groups in the nation.

For more information visit: Legoland.com

Coronado’s 4th of July Celebrations

Coronado’s popular annual Independence Day activities kick off with a 15k Run/Walk at dawn.

5:00 am – Wake up & get your spot along Orange Ave for the parade (photo). You can’t set up before 5:00 am! Tip, you can also take the ferry over from downtown San Diego to Coronado. The traffic is going to be heavy, so plan on walking or biking.

7:00 am – 37th Annual Independence Day 15K Run-5K Run/Walk
Tidelands Park (Registration at 5:30AM)
619-298-7400 (www.kathyloperevents.com)

8:00 am – 4:00 pm – Art in the Park
Spreckels Park (6th & Orange Avenue)

9:00 am – 53rd Annual Rough Water Swim
Central Beach (Check-In Starts at 7:30 am) – TBA

10:00 am – 64th Annual Independence Day Parade
2012 Theme “America’s People”
Location: Orange Ave from 1st Street to Churchill Place

2:30 – 4:00 pm – Adrian Empire Demonstration in Spreckels Park
Recreation of Western European culture between the years 1066-1603

4:00 pm –  Concert in the Park at Spreckels Park
Music by: Coronado Community Band

9:00 pm –  Fireworks Over Glorietta Bay / San Diego Bay (TBA)
Music by: 105.7 The Walrus FM radio

For more information visit: CoronadoVisitorCenter.com