Big Bear’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show will proceed as planned on Friday, despite concerns raised by wildlife enthusiasts about its potential impact on a local bald eagle family. An online petition, signed by about 26,000 people, urged organizers to postpone or cancel the event to protect Sunny and Gizmo, the juvenile eagle sisters recently spotted near the nest overlooking the lake.
Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear, stated that the decision to continue with the fireworks was made after careful consideration of community values and environmental science. “Our eagles are a source of joy, pride, and identity here in Big Bear — and our commitment to their future is unwavering,” Scott said.
Concerns have been raised by Friends of Big Bear Valley, a nonprofit managing a YouTube livestream of the eagle nest. They warn that the fireworks could startle the birds, causing them to fly at night when visibility is low, increasing the risk of injury. Sandy Steers, the nonprofit’s executive director, emphasized the dangers of disrupting the eagles, particularly the juveniles who are still adjusting to life outside the nest.
Despite these concerns, Visit Big Bear is committed to balancing community needs with environmental protection. The fireworks display, lasting under 30 minutes, will be conducted over water and managed by an experienced pyrotechnics company. The show is strategically set to begin after sensitive developmental periods for local wildlife, with fireworks launching on the south shore, away from the nest.
In previous years, the organization has adapted to the needs of the bald eagle family, canceling a 2022 Memorial Day fireworks show and introducing a drone and light show for Labor Day, which has become an annual tradition. Scott acknowledged that not everyone would agree with the decision but highlighted the organization’s efforts to evolve practices and prioritize science-based programming.
The fireworks show is scheduled to start at 8:45 p.m. on Friday. All other fireworks, including personal use, are banned in Big Bear Valley.
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