City of San José Quickly Pivots to Save 4th of July Celebration in East Side
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 3rd, 2025
Media Contact:
Tasha Dean, Chief Communications Officer, Office of Mayor Matt Mahan
Teddy Adera, Chief of Staff, Office of Councilmember Domingo Candelas
SAN JOSÉ, CA - Yesterday morning, the City of San José learned that the fireworks reserved for the second annual display at Lake Cunningham were destroyed in a tragic warehouse explosion late last night in Yolo County. City leaders acted swiftly, securing an alternative vendor to produce the drone show. As a result, attendees at Lake Cunningham will now enjoy the first-ever drone show in San José, while still safely celebrating the Fourth of July.
"The show must go on," said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. "I want to thank Councilmember Candelas and City staff for finding a solution in less than twenty-four hours that will ensure families in San Jose can celebrate American independence and the innovation that keeps us on the cutting edge with a drone show at Lake Cunningham."
The free celebration at Lake Cunningham will feature live music, more than fifteen food vendors, and a 9 p.m. drone show.
“The tragedy in Yolo County has affected multiple fireworks displays across the state,” said Councilmember Domingo Candelas. “While we have to cancel the fireworks, the celebration is still on. Families are welcome to come to Lake Cunningham to enjoy everything we have planned: food trucks, performances, and activities. Our hope is to still unite our community in celebration but also deter the use of illegal fireworks in our neighborhoods.”
“I am grateful to the City team who was able to find a safe and fun alternative on short notice so our families can enjoy a new form of entertainment this Fourth of July,” said Assistant City Manager Lee Wilcox.
At a press event yesterday, Fire Chief Sapien and Deputy Police Chief Sanchez reminded residents about the dangers of illegal fireworks. The police department will use drones to monitor activity and will issue fines of up to $50,000 for selling illegal explosives. The Mayor and Councilmember Candelas also acknowledged the tragedy in Yolo County and expressed their hopes for the swift and safe recovery of those still missing.
About the City of San José
With nearly one million residents, San José is the largest city in the Bay Area and one of the nation's most diverse and creative. San José’s transformation into a global innovation center in the heart of Silicon Valley has resulted in the world's greatest concentration of technology talent and development.