4th of July in Oceanside, CA: Fireworks & Beach Fun

Planning a beach vacation for the 4th of July? Whether you're staying in one of our North Coast Village condos or a South Oceanside home or bungalow, you're perfectly positioned to enjoy all the red, white, and blue festivities San Diego County has to offer. From patriotic parades and fireworks shows to rooftop parties and coastal cookouts, this is your complete guide to celebrating Independence Day in Oceanside and beyond.

Saturday, June 28 | 10 AM – 12 PM
Downtown Oceanside – Coast Hwy & Wisconsin Ave to Civic Center Drive
More Info
Kick off the holiday week early with Oceanside’s beloved community parade. Featuring floats, marching bands, vintage cars, and local pride, this hometown favorite travels north on Coast Highway.

Note: This year’s parade is on June 28, not July 4.

Saturday, June 28 | 12 PM
Uncle Anthony’s Local Market – 700 N Coast Hwy
Stick around after the parade for a casual gathering with food trucks, live music, and family fun just a block from the parade route.

Thursday, July 3 | 5 PM – 9 PM
Downtown Oceanside
Celebrate with classic cookout eats, backyard BBQ beats, patriotic face art, and more at this festive holiday version of the Sunset Market.

Wednesday, July 3 | 5 PM – 9 PM
660 S. El Camino Real, Oceanside
This family-friendly event features live music, food vendors, kids’ crafts, and fireworks. No outside beverages are allowed.

Wednesday, July 3 | Gates open at 4 PM, Fireworks at 9 PM
SoCal Soccer Complex – 3300 El Corazón Drive
Oceanside’s largest fireworks display includes live music, food vendors, a kids’ zone, and a spectacular fireworks show at 9 PM. Bring chairs and blankets. Admission is free.

Thursday, July 4 | Party begins at 11 AM, Flyover at 3:30 PM
Mission Pacific Hotel Rooftop
Celebrate all day with DJ sets, BBQ specials, and stunning beach views. Watch vintage aircraft fly over the coast in honor of Independence Day.

Thursday, July 4 | 4 PM
Sunshine Brooks Theatre – 217 N Coast Hwy
Cool off indoors with a free afternoon screening of Forrest Gump, a classic film that pairs perfectly with a nostalgic summer holiday.

Thursday, July 4 | Fireworks at 8:30 PM
Carlsbad, CA
Ideal for families, this all-day event includes patriotic LEGO builds, games, and a fireworks show synchronized to music. Park admission required.

Wednesday–Saturday, July 3–6 | Fireworks at 9 PM nightly
San Diego, CA
Enjoy animal shows, thrill rides, and SeaWorld’s nightly fireworks spectacular as part of their 4th of July weekend celebration. Included with park admission.

Ongoing | Extended hours through summer
Balboa Park, San Diego
While there are no fireworks, the Zoo offers evening hours, live music, and entertainment during its summer “Nighttime Zoo” experience. It's great for families looking for a quieter way to celebrate.

Thursday, July 4 | Park opens at 5 PM, Fireworks at 9 PM

1200 Vale Terrace Drive – Vista, CA
Enjoy food vendors, live music, and a community fireworks show above the Moonlight Amphitheatre.

Admission: $15 per vehicle or $5 per walk-in guest.

Thursday, July 4 – All Day

Coronado, CA
Coronado’s classic celebration includes a morning parade, Navy Leap Frogs skydiving show, live concerts, and fireworks over Glorietta Bay.

Thursday, July 4 | 9 PM
Downtown San Diego Waterfront
This is the biggest fireworks show in Southern California, with multiple launch barges lighting up the bay. Best viewed from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Seaport Village, or the Embarcadero.

Tip: Take the Coaster from Oceanside to skip the traffic.

After a full day of parades, fireworks, and sun-soaked adventure, there’s nothing better than winding down in your vacation rental. Whether you're soaking in the hot tub, listening to the waves from your balcony, or curling up in a cozy bed after a day of celebration, your perfect ending is waiting here in Oceanside.

Still looking for a place to stay this holiday weekend?

Book direct now with On The Sand Vacations for the best rates, early check-in, and easy access to all the 4th of July festivities.