After a year of cancelled celebrations because of the pandemic, this Fourth of July will be busier than ever. Harbor Police expect large crowds to attend the Big Bay Boom weekend. They remind residents and visitors that it is safe to celebrate.

Harbor Police Lt. Victor Banuelos stated that they were expecting last year’s Fourth of July to be the busiest, as it fell on a Saturday in 2020. It also happened to be their 20th year of celebrating.

Banuelos anticipates that the city will be bustling this weekend, even though the holiday falls on a Saturday.

He reminds that alcohol containers and alcoholic drinks are not permitted in the parks. Banuelos also stated that there is no smoking allowed in parks. Police advise those who wish to catch a glimpse at the Big Bay Boom to stay on grassy areas.

Parking lots will open at 6 a.m., and they are expected to be full quickly. Tow trucks will also be on standby to enforce parking regulations.

Shelter Island is the most popular because it has a boat launch ramp and tends to be full the fastest.

He said, “If you are joining us on a vessel, I would launch either from National City Pepper Park (or from Chula Vista J Street Park”).” You can launch there, and you will avoid traffic on your way out.

Boaters are prohibited from speeding. Officials remind everyone on the water to keep at least 1,000 feet from barges and carry enough life vests.

The parks along the harbor close at 10:45 p.m. each night, and reopen at 6 a.m.

All the action from the Big Bay Boom can be seen on FOX 5’s hour-and-a-half special, which starts at 8 p.m. Sunday, July 4,. This show will show you what goes into making the fireworks show happen, which runs from 9 to 9:30 pm.