There’s something about “rockets bursting in air” on Independence Day that ignites the senses and breeds a feeling of patriotism.
Fort Wayne’s city-sponsored fireworks display was postponed last year because of — what else? — the pandemic, but the city managed to hold a fireworks celebration on Nov. 10, the eve of Veterans Day.
The spectacular show was a much-needed boost during a time that was mostly shut down.
This year, the celebration will take place on its traditional day, the weekend of July 4, and will be a welcome return to normalcy for the city.
When asked to give a prediction on how many people will attend this year’s show, John Perlich, director of information for the City of Fort Wayne, said, “It’s difficult to give a precise number.”
But in years past, thousands of people made the trek downtown in order to get the best views of the show.
Downtown Fort Wayne
The Indiana Michigan Power Center in downtown Fort Wayne will once again be the epicenter of the show. Scheduled to start at 10 p.m. on Sunday, July 4, the fireworks will be shot from the roof of the building, which offers a wide view of the show.
The Fort Wayne TinCaps will host a baseball game that evening and individuals with tickets to the game can enjoy the fireworks from their seats in the Parkview Field ballpark.
If you don’t get a ticket to the game, several other prime locations offer a good view. According to Perlich, the Courthouse Green area, Freimann Square, Citizens Square parking lot, and Promenade Park are just a few of the great downtown destinations to watch the fireworks.
“The fireworks are visible from miles away, so even some areas outside of downtown would be options,” he said.
COVID-19 safety protocols are still a priority for the city, so city officials encourage the use of various locations in order to spread out as much as possible and help ensure the safety of the public.
“We ask that people be courteous to one another and consider wearing a mask if not fully vaccinated and practice social distancing,” Perlich said.
The eagerness is already building. It’s as if we can feel and hear the excitement of onlookers as they prepare to “ooh and aah” at the fireworks.
“The Fourth of July will mark an encouraging next step in our ongoing efforts to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” Perlich said. “We’re making strides, and each day gets better as we work together to engage, innovate, and perform to help individuals, families, and businesses.”
All over the region
If you find yourself somewhere other than Fort Wayne on Independence Day weekend and would still like to see a fantastic light show, several other communities in the area are hosting celebrations.
The Village at Winona will celebrate on July 3 with a Symphony of the Lakes “Salute to America” concert at 8 p.m., followed by a fireworks display over Winona Lake at 10 p.m.
Lake Wawasee starts celebrating early with the Flotilla Road Race at 8 a.m. on July 3. Fireworks take place at dusk that same night, originating from the entrance of Lake Wawasee with choreographed music on WAWC 103.5 FM.
In Columbia City, kids activities begin at 6 p.m. on July 3 in Morsches Park. Vendors and live music start around midday, and fireworks begin at dusk.
Garrett Heritage Days takes place on Saturday, July 3, and Sunday, July 4. A parade and evening concert is set for July 3. On July 4, a 5K run/walk, cruise-in, talent show, and concessions are scheduled. Fireworks take place at 10 p.m.
Angola’s annual festivities begin with a downtown parade on July 4 followed by music and concessions at Commons Park. Fireworks begin at dusk.
A few other fireworks displays beginning at dusk include:
July 2:
Huntington, Crestview Middle School
July 3:
Albion, Central Noble High School
Lake James
Big Long Lake
July 4:
Bluffton, Bluffton-Harrison Middle School
Decatur, Riverside Center
Wabash, Field of Dreams
