America will celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026 with what is sure to be great fanfare and a spectacular firework show. Carnival Cruise Line, aptly known as America’s Cruise Line, will celebrate right along with the rest of America. The cruise line has been announced as the official cruise line sponsor of the Port of San Diego’s Big Bay Boom–the largest Fourth of July fireworks show on the West Coast. Carnival Radiance, Carnival Firenze and Carnival Luminosa will be anchored in the Pacific Ocean giving guests the best seat in the house.
Not only is Carnival Cruise Line the cruise line sponsor, but they will also be a part of the countdown programming and celebrations. The cruise line will also collaborate with the Port of San Diego to honor active-duty service members, veterans and their families.
“We’re honored to be part of such a historic milestone and iconic event in San Diego,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Being the exclusive cruise line sponsor of the Big Bay Boom gives us a meaningful way to celebrate our connection to this community, to our military families and to the patriotic spirit that defines Fourth of July.”
Big Bay Boom, California’s largest fireworks show, will begin at 9 pm. Hundreds of thousands of people will be on hand to watch as the fireworks are launched from four barges across San Diego Bay. The show is expected to last around 20 minutes. The Big Boom Bay event brings in millions of dollars to the area with the largest impact to the hotel, motel, restaurant and shopping industries.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Carnival for next year’s Big Bay Boom program and festivities,” said Chair Danielle Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “Along with Carnival, their cruise ship guests, the local community and thousands of visitors, we look forward to enjoying another spectacular fireworks show and memorable Independence Day celebration across San Diego Bay.”
Carnival Cruise Line will also have seven ships sailing from the East Coast that will meet up in the Atlantic on July 4, 2026, for a “unique celebration at sea.” Each ship will host patriotic parties with special programming, food and drink.