More Cities Replacing July 4th Fireworks With Drone Shows

This year, several local governments are switching up their 4th of July celebrations, conducting drone shows in lieu of fireworks.

Lincoln City, Oregon; Redwood City, California; Waynesboro, Virginia; and Pasadena, California, are all jumping on the drone show bandwagon.

Lincoln City provided an explanation for the change alongside the schedule for their 4th of July celebrations: “We are making this change in response to growing community concerns about the environmental and wildlife impacts, public safety issues, and wildfire risk that can be caused by traditional fireworks shows.”

Redwood City stated that their new tradition of drone shows will provide “all the ‘wow’ without the worry.”

Pasadena announced that they would replace the annual fireworks at the Rose Bowl — known for being one of the largest and longest running shows in the nation — with a drone show.

The debate of fireworks versus drones is a hot one.

Proponents of drone shows point to the pollution caused by fireworks.

On Monday, Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) published a report warning residents that “EGLE’s air monitoring network often shows high levels of particulate pollution over the 4th of July.”

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Additionally, it’s claimed that drone shows are more inclusive and respectful of wildlife and pets.

“Drones produce almost no noise, allowing pets and veterans that may have PTSD to enjoy aerial entertainment, unlike fireworks,” says Tyler Kubicz, production manager for Sky Elements Drones, the largest drone show company in the United States.

“Drones also do not produce debris or smoke, allowing for those with compromised immune systems to enjoy the show too.”

“Fireworks frighten birds out of their nests, send terrified dogs and cats running away from their homes, and start fires that can quickly turn devastating,” PETA’s executive vice president commented in response to Pasadena’s announcement in April.

Viewers say they appreciate the futuristic effects and storytelling capabilities of drones. “Reactions to the show in 2023 were overwhelmingly positive,” said Amber Thrill, operations manager for the city.

“The primary request through the 2023 event survey was for the drone show to be longer.”

On the flip side, drone shows are significantly more expensive, being approximately 10 times the cost of fireworks.

Fourth of July fireworks are also a centuries long American tradition, and many Americans love the explosiveness and nostalgia of fireworks. This has led some cities to walk back on their changes.

“Redondo Beach and Laguna Beach switched back to fireworks after trying out drone shows, and some promoters of fireworks shows have voiced criticism over efforts to transition to drone shows,” writes the LA Times.