Port of San Diego and Fleet Week Foundation Join Forces to Support 2026 Big Bay Boom

Planning is already taking shape for the 2026 Big Bay Boom fireworks show, and this year’s preparations come with a strengthened community partnership. The Port of San Diego has selected the San Diego Fleet Week Foundation as its official nonprofit fundraising partner, marking a new chapter for one of the region’s most beloved Independence Day traditions.

The Big Bay Boom has long relied on charitable giving to light up the skyline each Fourth of July. Grants, corporate contributions, small business support, and donations from individual residents Image courtesy of the Port of San Diego collectively fuel the logistics behind the West Coast’s largest July Fourth fireworks display. Under the new partnership, the Fleet Week Foundation will take on the role of applying for grants and receiving contributions that make the annual show possible. The Foundation will work directly with the Port and show executive producer Sandy Purdon to ensure the event’s financial foundation remains strong.

“Partnering with the Fleet Week Foundation allows the Por t to broaden community investment in the Big Bay Boom in a way that aligns with how individuals, companies, and philanthropic organizations prefer to give,” said The Port’s Senior Public Information Officer, Brianne Page in an email to The Log. “Their nonprofit role creates new opportunities for supporters to contribute to an event that delivers both tremendous civic value and significant economic benefit to local businesses.

At the same time, the Port continues to lead the planning, environmental oversight, and production of the event. Working together strengthens the event’s long-term sustainability and helps ensure that the Big Bay Boom remains one of San Diego’s most cherished traditions heading into 2026.”

Funds raised by Fleet Week San Diego will not only support the fire works spectacular but also reinforce the Foundation’s broader mission to honor and celebrate military service members. The alignment between a patriotic holiday event and an organization dedicated to supporting the military com munity offers a meaningful synergy as the region looks toward the nation’s 250th anniversary.

For San Diego, the Big Bay Boom is more than a fireworks show. It is the largest free public event held on the bay and draws more than a quarter million spectators to the waterfront each year. Visitors line parks, piers, and marinas surrounding the harbor to watch the synchronized display illuminate the skyline, bringing an annual boost to tourism, local businesses, and the maritime community. The Port describes the celebration as an important part of San Diego’s summer identity, creating public access opportunities while contributing to the region’s cultural and economic vitality.

Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners Chair Danielle Moore said the renewed partnership helps set the tone for what will be a milestone Independence Day. “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,” Moore said. “The Big Bay Boom is recognized as an exception al Independence Day fireworks display and remains an important fixture in San Diego’s summer calendar.”

Fleet Week Foundation Board Chair Michael “Mick” Fulton echoed the sentiment. “Fleet Week San Diego is honored to be the Port of San Diego’s charitable partner for the Big Bay Boom fireworks show,” he said. “Our board, commit tee, and volunteers have a long history of working with the Port’s team of out standing 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 scheduled for Saturday, July 4, with fireworks once again launching from four barges across the bay and accompanied by a musical simulcast. Sponsorship details and additional event information are expected to be released as planning continues.