Independence Day weekend for this year has just wrapped up and the countdown has already begun for next year’s Big Bay Boom in San Diego. This year we enjoyed the 4^th of July festivities from the flight deck of the USS Midway. Last month when we visited the Midway, we saw the announcement about being able to watch fireworks from aboard the ship so we bought the tickets for this special event.

We had a fun time and here are my 4 tips for watching the annual Big Bay Boom from aboard the USS Midway.

1. Plan ahead. Buy your tickets early — they are available early/mid-June & sell out each year. Arrive early — boarding begins at 6:00 p.m. for the 9:00 p.m. fireworks show.
2. Bring chair(s) & your own snacks/food. The flight deck has limited seating available so it’s advisable to bring your own chair(s). There are food & beverage concessions available for purchase, but you are welcome to bring your own snacks/food.
3. Pack light! There is restricted elevator usage – only available for strollers or wheelchairs. Practice patience when the evening is over…there will be over 4,000 people trying to exit the flight deck via the stairs at the same time.
4. Set-up your viewing location. The best viewing is near a railing, but there are great views from anywhere on the flight deck.

July 4, 2015 | Watching Big Bay Boom from Aboard the USS Midway. Photo Credits: Krista. Collage created with PhotoGrid iPhone app.

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