Fireworks have long marked important holidays and celebratory milestones, such as Fourth of July and anniversaries. The explosions of color, light and sound evoke a sense of awe and shared experience, deeply rooted in national tradition. Beyond providing entertainment, fireworks are a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and civic pride.

In recent years though, the harmful side effects of fireworks have received more scrutiny. Fireworks are known to disturb wildlife and pets, cause air, noise and physical pollution, and be a safety hazard. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is concerned with wildlife disturbance and marine debris. Similarly, opposition to fireworks displays in coastal communities has become more prevalent as citizens consider the potential impacts to the coastal environment.

“There’s definitely been a shift in the public perception of fireworks events over sanctuary waters,” says Kacy Cooper, MBNMS permit coordinator. “After the most recent fireworks events in 2024, I have received multiple calls from the public asking why the sanctuary was issuing permits for these events.”

Over the past few years, Monterey Bay sanctuary has permitted fireworks shows under strict conditions to minimize impacts to the sanctuary. Permit conditions require environmental monitors to conduct surveys before and after the event, limit the amount of louder “salute” type fireworks, and shift the launching point to areas away from the surf zone and other sensitive habitats. Permittees are also required to conduct beach clean-ups after the event and report on the amount of trash collected.

Other agencies, such as the California Coastal Commission, have also started taking a more nuanced approach to permitting fireworks shows by requiring applicants to analyze alternatives to fireworks events.

According to Jessica Kahn, public works director at the city of Capitola, “the city is now taking on the responsibility of permitting the Monte Foundation Fireworks show and is committed to supporting the event in a way that respects both community tradition while also considering environmental stewardship and potential alternatives for the future.”

The city recognizes the importance of the annual fireworks show as a community-based fundraiser but must also consider potential environmental, public health, and noise-related impacts.

Katie Thompson, executive director at Save Our Shores, shares that “Innovative alternatives like drone shows are powerful reminders that we can celebrate in ways that reflect our growing commitment to environmental stewardship. These more environmentally friendly options allow us to gather and celebrate while minimizing harm to our coastlines, wildlife, and ocean.”

Drone shows are growing in popularity around the world. On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk hosted its first ever drone show to kick off summer. Karley Pope, director of marketing and sales at the Boardwalk recounted, “We had a wonderful turnout and received enthusiastic feedback about our first-ever drone show. The excitement from our guests and the community has us already looking forward to planning the next one.”

Drone shows produce less noise, light, and pollution as compared to traditional fireworks displays. Drone shows can be tailored to specific themes or events and can produce a more flexible and innovative display compared to traditional fireworks. As communities explore new traditions, the cultural significance of fireworks remains a key part of the conversation.

Monterey Bay sanctuary is committed to balancing resource protection with public enjoyment, and will continue to follow applicable law and collaborate with state and local agencies to promote responsible celebrations and wildlife protection. By reducing the number of fireworks displays and incorporating more alternatives, such as drone shows, communities along the California coast can continue to celebrate while safeguarding the diverse marine life that calls the sanctuary home.

Superintendent Lisa Wooninck and her staff at NOAA’s Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary conduct research, education and resource protection in one of most biodiverse marine protected areas in the world. Learn about new and exciting stories by the sanctuary within these articles. Wooninck can be reached at lisa.wooninck@noaa.gov. To learn more about the sanctuary, visit montereybay.noaa.gov.