Port of San Diego Partners with San Diego Fleet Week Foundation for Big Bay Boom Fundraising
Contact: bpage@portofsandiego.org, 619.348.1518, bpage@portofsandiego.org
Media Contacts: Brianne Page, bpage@portofsandiego.org, 619.348.1518; Larry Blumberg, ceo@fleetweeksandiego.org, 619.665.8807
Planning for the 2026 Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom fireworks show over San Diego Bay is underway. As part of the efforts, the Port is partnering with the San Diego Fleet Week Foundation as the official non-profit partner for fundraising. The Big Bay Boom is funded in large part by charitable grants and donations from many organizations, small businesses, corporations, and individual sponsors. The Fleet Week Foundation will work with the Port and the show’s executive producer, Sandy Purdon, serving as the charitable organization that applies for grants and accepts donations that help support the event. Additionally, a portion of all funds raised by Fleet Week San Diego will support the Foundation’s mission to “Honor, Thank, and Celebrate the Men and Women of the Military.”
The Big Bay Boom is the largest Fourth of July fireworks show on the West Coast. It’s the largest free annual public event on San Diego Bay and the Port of San Diego is proud to continue this Independence Day tradition. The Big Bay Boom fireworks show attracts over a quarter-million spectators to the waterfront, enriching the region’s cultural vibrancy, expanding public access and recreation, and strengthening the local economy.
“The Port of San Diego is pleased to host the 2026 Big Bay Boom in partnership with Fleet Week San Diego. This event will honor the service of our military personnel and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States,” said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “The Big Bay Boom is recognized as an exceptional Independence Day fireworks display and remains an important fixture in San Diego's summer calendar."
“Fleet Week San Diego is honored to be the Port of San Diego’s charitable partner for the Big Bay Boom fireworks show,” said Michael “Mick” Fulton, Board Chair of the San Diego Fleet Week Foundation. “Our board, committee, and volunteers have a long history of working with the Port’s team of outstanding professionals to bring high quality public events to the San Diego community, and we look forward to continuing that relationship as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country.”
The 2026 Big Bay Boom is set for Saturday, July 4, 2026. Like all Big Bay Boom events since 2001, a spectacular display of fireworks will be launched from four barges in different locations on the bay with a musical simulcast on the radio. More information about sponsorship opportunities will be available at a later date.
ABOUT FLEET WEEK SAN DIEGO
Fleet Week San Diego is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit foundation created by community and business leaders “to honor, celebrate, and thank the men and women of the military through public events and alliances that increase public awareness of the many contributions made by the Military and the Defense Community to the San Diego Region.” The Chamber of Commerce gave birth to Fleet Week San Diego in 1997 and by 2001 the event had grown into a nonprofit California Public Benefit Corporation. By showcasing the many contributions made by the sea services to the communities of the greater San Diego region, The San Diego Fleet Week Foundation reinforces San Diego’s reputation as a patriotic, pro-military community. To learn more about Fleet Week San Diego, please visit fleetweeksandiego.org.
About THE Port of San Diego
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 23 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
About Port of San Diego Experiences
Port of San Diego Experiences welcomes businesses, residents and visitors from across the globe to enjoy and prosper from our dynamic waterfront.
As a treasured destination, the Port provides unique opportunities to captivate visitors and ensure everyone is welcomed, connected and inspired by our beautiful waterfront.