La Jolla to Hold Independence Day Drone Show for Second Year

While the usual fireworks displays are going on all over San Diego on July 4th, La Jolla will host a quieter show.

Following the success of 2023’s inaugural drone show, La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club and the LJ STEAM Foundation have announced the second annual Fourth of July drone show over La Jolla Shores.

The free event in La Jolla will feature 200 small drones equipped with lights that change color and intensity and which are used to create different images in the air — but without the potentially explosive issues that come with fireworks displays.

The booms and loud bursts of fireworks displays, as well as the flashing lights and the scent of gunpowder, can be difficult for people with gun-related traumas, such as mass shooting survivors or combat veterans.

In addition, fireworks can also take a toll on health and the environment by releasing particulate matter and gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen, which can aggravate chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma.

Drone shows are increasingly being touted as a relatively eco-friendly and sensory-friendly alternative to fireworks.

The free event starts at 9:00 p.m. on July 4th. Organizers say the prime viewing areas are at Kellogg Park, La Jolla Shores Hotel, and La Jolla Cove.