Visit Big Bear 4th Of July Eagle Response
Big Bear’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular and Our Commitment to Stewardship
Visit Big Bear recognizes the deep passion people have for Jackie, Shadow, Sandy, Luna, and the bald eagles that have become such an important part of Big Bear’s identity. We also recognize that people across the country have formed a meaningful connection to Big Bear through the eagle cam.
That connection matters. So does the local community that lives, works, volunteers, raises families, and stewards this place year-round.
At this time, Visit Big Bear is moving forward with the July 4th Fireworks Spectacular. This decision has not been made lightly. We understand the concerns being expressed, and we remain committed to approaching the event with care, responsibility, and respect for Big Bear’s natural environment.
The fireworks show is a long-standing community tradition and an important economic driver for Big Bear’s local businesses, workers, restaurants, lodging properties, recreation providers, and families. That context is especially important this year after another low-to-no snow winter, which directly impacted many of our neighbors, employees, and small businesses.
Big Bear’s tourism ecosystem is fragile too, and the Fourth of July holiday is part of the broader effort to help our community recover heading into the summer season.
At the same time, Big Bear’s wildlife, lake, forest, and open spaces must remain central to how we make decisions as a community. This is not a choice between caring for wildlife and caring for local families. We believe Big Bear can and must do both.
The Big Bear community has coexisted with its wildlife, including bald eagles, for generations. That responsibility is not new. It is part of daily life here, and it is a responsibility we take seriously.
Important context regarding the fireworks show
- The fireworks display is professionally managed and launched from a barge over Big Bear Lake.
- According to a Google Earth measurement reviewed by Visit Big Bear, the fireworks barge is approximately 2.0 miles from the Jackie and Shadow nest area.
- Prior-year eagle cam footage shows the fireworks occurring at a significant distance from the nest.
- The show is not approved or produced in isolation. A professionally managed fireworks display over Big Bear Lake requires coordination among multiple agencies, public safety partners, and event stakeholders.
- The show is coordinated with local fire safety authorities and follows required safety protocols.
- The show is scheduled to finish in under 30 minutes.
- Visit Big Bear is working with the fireworks provider to reduce the loudest booms where possible.
- Personal fireworks remain illegal throughout Big Bear Valley.
- Clean-up efforts take place following the show.
We do not want this conversation framed as Big Bear versus eagle advocates. That is not who we are. Big Bear loves these eagles too. Our goal is to continue a responsible, professionally managed community tradition while keeping stewardship at the center of the conversation.
We invite everyone who cares about Big Bear to help keep the conversation civil, factual, and constructive. Support responsible visitation. Respect wildlife. Never use personal fireworks. Participate in Care for Big Bear efforts. Support local conservation work. Help keep Big Bear beautiful for generations to come.
Big Bear can love its wildlife, protect its natural environment, support its local economy, and responsibly celebrate the 4th of July.
Warmly,
The Visit Big Bear Team
