The Burn Institute’s annual Firefighter Demolition Derby and Fire & Safety Expo is back for its 33rd year! This year’s family-friendly event will take place Sunday, June 15 , 2025 during the San Diego County Fair. This beloved event includes firefighting and safety demonstrations, a fire-and-burn-prevention pavilion, and of course, the Firefighter Demolition Derby. Tickets may be purchased at the SD Fair’s website for June 15 to attend this event. One inside the Fair, admission to the Derby is free.

Schedule of Free Events

11:00 am – 12:30 pm Free CPR training, safety education, activities for the kids, derby car viewing— Visit teams in the pits

1:00 pm Burn Run Fire Truck Parade & Opening Ceremonies

2:00 pm Firefighter Demolition Derby— Preliminary Heats

4:45 p.m. Last Chance Qualifier Demo Derby Heats

5:00 p.m. Introducing the Derby Finalists

5:30 p.m. Final Heat of the Demolition Derby

The Demo Derby is by far the Burn Institute’s most popular event among the fire service! Fire departments from across San Diego County modify clunkers to smash head to head with fellow departments. The event consists of three initial heats, two last-chance qualifying heats, and then a final round where the last car standing is crowned the champ! In addition to building their cars, each team raises money for the Burn Institute through car sponsorship, raising upwards of $80,000 each year. Join us this Father’s Day to cheer the heroes in the community!

Interested in entering a car in the derby? For more information on how to get started, contact Tiffany at [email protected] or call 858-541-2277.

Want to become an event sponsor? Contact Edward at [email protected] or call 858-541-2277.

Thank you to last year’s 2024 Derby Sponsors!

Presenting Sponsor 

Major Sponsors 

Participating Sponsor

Additional Sponsors