Fourth of July

What better place is there to spend Independence Day than at The San Diego County Fair? Highlighting the day will be the traditional fireworks display, which will happen at approximately 9:00PM. The fireworks display is visible throughout the Fairgrounds, so as long as you're outside, there's no better place to watch!

We'll start the day with a patriotic Opening Ceremony about 9:30AM at the O'Brien Gate. When the gates open about 10:00AM, there'll be plenty to do. Plan your day with the July 4 schedule.

Hometown Heroes Parade and Grandstand Show

The San Diego County Fair and KyXy 96.5 honor our Hometown Heroes, those inspirational and influential people we are fortunate enough to have in San Diego County. These individuals go above and beyond to have a positive impact on their community. Earlier this spring, people nominated their Hometown Heroes, and these people will enjoy a day at the Fair with special seating at the Grandstand concert. These heroes will march in the annual Hometown Heroes parade from the Infield to the Grandstand, starting at about 7:00PM.

When the Heroes reach the Grandstand area, we will have some special guests on stage, who are connected with the World Memorial Exhibit that has been on display during the Fair at the Del Mar Arena.

Following that, the Navy Band Southwest will do their annual concert at 7:30PM on the Grandstand Stage, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at about 9:00PM. The fireworks are visible from throughout the Fairgrounds.

Open til midnight

After the fireworks, those who took the COASTER to the Fair should immediately make their way to the West Gate to catch NCTD buses back to each COASTER station, north and south of Solana Beach.

We invite everyone else to stick around and have some fun! All the shopping and exhibit buildings will be open until midnight, as will the Fun Zone.

Transportation and parking

Take the COASTER: The COASTER train will run on Wednesday, July 4. Take the train to the Fair, and after the fireworks, North County Transit District will have buses to return you to every COASTER station, north and south of the Fairgrounds. See the Public Transportation page for additional information.

Park at one of our free off-site lots and take the free shuttle to the Fairgrounds. We have three free off-site lots:
   • MiraCosta College's San Elijo campus (best for those coming south on Interstate 5 from North County)
   • Horsepark Equestrian Center (a good choice for those approaching the Fair on Del Dios Highway)
   • Torrey Pines High School (best for those coming from the southern part of the county)
See the Parking page for more information.

We have several great contests throughout the day. No pre-registration is required; click the links to find out how to participate! Our special Fourth of July contests are: Homemade BBQ Sauce and Most Patriotic Costume Contest.