Scheduling Conflict Forces Change to Hermiston’s Fireworks Show

0
1662

The Independence Day weekend fireworks show at the Hermiston Butte will take place on Sunday, July 3 at 10 p.m. instead of the July 4.

The city was informed recently that the licensed pyrotechnician originally scheduled to oversee the annual fireworks show on Monday, July 4 was no longer available for the event. The city was able to secure another licensed pyrotechnician for the evening of July 3.  The show will last approximately 20 minutes, slightly shorter than previous years.

“The Hermiston community has some amazing Fourth of July traditions, and the fireworks show at the Butte has become a highlight so many people look forward to,” said Hermiston Parks & Recreation Director Brandon Artz. “We’re glad that the show will go on this year and hope that everyone in the community can join us to kick off the holiday on the evening of July 3 and come back for more events on the Fourth. It’s a great chance to extend the celebration.”

Following the fireworks on Sunday, July 3, the Fourth of July celebration at Butte Park is 3-8 p.m. on Monday, July 4 and includes vendors, games and other activities and is open to the public. The Hermiston Family Aquatic Center hours have also been extended to 1:10-8 p.m. for the holiday.

If you plan to watch the fireworks on July 3 at or near the Butte, please be aware of traffic restrictions in place after the show. Because of the large number of vehicles and pedestrians we will have flaggers in place to ensure safe departure from the park and Hermiston Family Aquatic Center parking lot.

Be safe this Fourth of July. The Oregon State Fire Marshal encourages the use of only legal fireworks by non-licensed individuals. Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any firework that flies into the air, explodes, or travels more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit issued by the OSFM. Fireworks, commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers, are illegal in Oregon without a permit.