Fireworks Fun for the Whole Family
by Roger Moore
Trying to decide where to set up the lawn
chairs this 4th of July? Let this guide to
fireworks celebrations in Kansas City
help with the decision.
Kansas Citians love a celebration, and know how to party with a bang on the 4th of July. With Independence Day falling on a Friday this year, look forward to a midsummer, three-day holiday with family and friends.
Those who aren't big on crowds and plan on staging a
private display for the family, neighborhood or company,
had best act quickly as fireworks will be in short supply
this year. Those who prefer letting others do the work will
find that the region offers a big slice of Americana.
Public Celebrations
Every part of the metro offers a public display, and many come with festivals and music.
On the Kansas side, head to the Fire in the Sky Fireworks Celebration at Shawnee Mission Park, traditionally one of the biggest in the metro area. The show is free and, frankly, hard to miss from anywhere in the region the night of the 4th.
For a little philanthropy with the fireworks, the best bet
is the Star Spangled Spectacular at Corporate Woods in
Overland Park. The event has provided aide to local charities
for 17 years by offering an evening full of events for
the whole family.
In Independence, Harry Truman's hometown offers a free display on the grounds of the Mormon Visitors Center after a performance by the Spirit of Independence Band.
Few things are more stunning than watching fireworks over the Missouri River. The Parkville July 4th Festival in historic Downtown Parkville offers such a display. Featuring a free festival that includes a parade and carnival, it is a great place to spend the day and evening. For thrill-seekers and their parents, Worlds of Fun, which has added several popular new thrill rides the last few years, is a great place to watch fireworks. The display starts at 10 p.m.; the park is open until midnight on the 4th.
Located on the riverfront at Berkley Park, KC RiverFest
has become of the region's favorite summer festivals. With
a two-day festival beginning July 3, the lineup is full of
concerts and entertainment. The U.S. Air Force Band
performs July 4 just prior to the 10 p.m. Pyro Spectacular.
Admission is only $5 per day; kids 12 and under are free.
Do-it-yourself Celebrations
Fourth of July weekend offers a built-in excuse to bring
family, friends, neighbors and colleagues together in celebration.
And what better way to top off a community event
than a private fireworks display? It's possible to stage a
quality display for as little as $2,000, or impress the neighbors
by splurging on a $20,000 display. After finding an
appropriate space, either head to one of the myriad fireworks
stands in outlying or sparsely populated areas in the
metro, or call one of several local companies that specialize
in private displays.
Charlie Wald, third-generation president of his familyrun All American Display Fireworks, said his company organizes more than 200 public and private displays a year including this year's events at Shawnee Mission Park and Corporate Woods.
He cautioned party planners to shop early this year, and expect a little sticker shock on larger, night display fireworks. For that consumers can blame this summer's Olympic Games in China, which has prompted the Chinese government to restrict shipments in and out of the country.
While most communities in the region prohibit the sale of personal fireworks, it's still possible to find fireworks stands. It is legal to buy and set off fireworks in most Eastern Jackson County communities including Blue Springs and Lee's Summit. To the North, Riverside and Parkville will host numerous firework tents. And fireworks tents will be plentiful throughout Wyandotte County.
With all of these great options for Kansas Citians on
the 4th of July it is sure to be a spectacular Independence
Day and long weekend.