Ooooh! Aaahhh! 2011 Fourth of July Fireworks

It's such a fitting way to celebrate our nation's birthday, and though it's not the case, it's as if fireworks displays were created just for the Fourth of July. And what better way to top off a day (or weekend) of gathering with friends, having a picnic and barbecue, hitting the beach or park than a grand fireworks display. So here's a rundown of known fireworks displays around San Diego County. There's bound to be a fireworks show close to your neighborhood. Most fireworks start around 9 p.m. and all listings are for July 4, except where noted. You might want to check with specific locations if you're unsure of times or directions. And please keep your animals secured...loud fireworks can frighten them to the point of running off in fright.

NOTE: Due to budget constraints, many annual community fireworks displays are subject to donations and if funding falls short, the events may be canceled. Please check with your local community centers if they are not listed here or listed as tentative.

2011 Independence Day Fireworks Schedule (all displays take place on July 4 unless noted otherwise)

San Diego

San Diego Bay - Big Bay Boom
9 p.m.
The Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show is back for its eleventh year, promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay off Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero and Chula Vista. Fireworks also will be discharged at the Imperial Beach Pier..

Coronado: Glorietta Bay
9 p.m.
63rd Annual Independence Day Parade: A Salute to America's Heroes on Monday, July 4 at 10 a.m. Fireworks over Glorietta Bay (part of Big Bay Boom) 9 p.m.

La Jolla Cove
TENTATIVE: Although court rulings have said the fireworks display can continue, there are still funding concerns. If enough donations are raised, then the event will happen on July 4 at 9 p.m.

Mira Mesa Recreation Center
Each year the local Fourth of July fireworks display is set off from Mira Mesa High School fields and enjoyed by many who gather at locations such as Mira Mesa Community Park or at Miramar Lake in Scripps Ranch. 9 p.m. Food, rides, games and entertainment in Mira Mesa Community Park during the day. 8575 New Salem Street.

Ocean Beach Pier
9 p.m. Ocean Blvd. & Newport Ave.

Mission Bay: Sea World
9:30 p.m. (July 3-July 5) Viewing also available along Crown Point, and all around the Sea World and Mission Bay area.

East County

Santee: Town Center Community Park Ballfields
9 p.m. 9400 Cuyamaca Street

La Mesa: Lake Murray
TENTATIVE, subject to funding. Music from noon to 9 p.m., with fireworks at 9:15 p.m. at Lake Murray Community Park

El Cajon: Kennedy Park
9 p.m. The fun begins Monday at 12 noon with the annual 4th of July Picnic at Kennedy Park, followed by a spectacular fireworks show at 9 p.m. Kennedy Park, a “smoke and alcohol free” park, is located at 1675 East Madison Avenue in El Cajon.

North County

Rancho Bernardo: Bernardo Heights Middle School
9 p.m.
Community Fair at Webb Park- including Kiwanis Club Pancake Breakfast, Art Walk, Quilt Show, children’s games, RB Idol competition, patriotic dog contest, and great drinks and food. Evening Entertainment with the Eve Selis Band & Fireworks at Bernardo Heights Middle School.

San Marcos: Bradley Park
9 p.m. Food and music are part of the celebration beginning at 6 p.m.. 465 S. Rancho Santa Fe.

Poway: Poway High School
9 p.m.
Bring your family and friends and celebrate our country’s independence “turn-of-the-twentieth-century-style” at the Old-fashioned Fourth of July at Old Poway Park. Fireworks display at Poway High at 9 p.m.

Escondido: Grape Day Park
9 p.m.
This annual 4th of July celebration invites the community for a festive afternoon of picnicking in the park while enjoying live entertainment, free art activities, games and more. The event will conclude with a dazzling fireworks display in Grape Day Park set to begin at approximately 9:00 p.m. 321 N. Broadway.

Carlsbad: Legoland
8:30 p.m. included with admission.

San Diego County Fair: Del Mar Fairgrounds
9 p.m. included with admission.

South Bay

National City: Kimball Community Park
Annual Fourth of July Carnival, 1 to 11 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m.