Grand Island Community Fireworks Display Planning Tips

Jul 2, 2024 / Dana Jelinek Grand Island Tourism/Sculpture Walk Committee

[GRAND ISLAND, NE July 1, 2024] The Grand Island Community Fireworks Display committee has updated information to help you prepare for this year’s fireworks display.

New to many spectators is the addition of parking in the field across Stuhr Road, east of Fonner Park. Parking will be available in the “Luebbe Lot” after 8:30 p.m. on July 4. Due to the great vantage point, there is a new twist. The first 20 cars to that lot, that either show a donation receipt for $100 dated July 4 from the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, or donate $100 at the gate, will receive VIP parking.

This special parking will have space between cars for lawn chairs. Each of the 20 vehicles will receive a party pack with bottled water, popcorn, candy and patriotic items as a thank you for supporting the show.

As has traditionally been the case, Fonner Park will also have their parking lots available.

“For safety reasons we want to keep as many cars off of the sides of the roads as possible, and we remind people to not bring personal fireworks,” said Dana Jelinek, one of the event’s committee members.

The committee also wants spectators to be aware of back-up plans, should there be a weather event. The number one issue would be if there is lightning in the area.

J & M Displays fireworks contractor, Don Wisniewski, said, “Our number one rule is if we have lightning within 20 miles of the shoot site, we will wait 30 minutes before making a decision if we should postpone.”

Although fireworks can be shot off during rain, J & M Displays may delay so that the public can enjoy the show on the back-up date. If the weather creates a postponement, the back-up date is July 5.

In either case, the fireworks will be shot off beginning at 10 p.m., with the radio broadcast beginning about ten to fifteen minutes before. People may listen, by tuning in to KRGI 1430 AM or 105.5 FM.

The Grand Island Community Fireworks Celebration committee was formed in 2023 to bring a community supported display back to Grand Island after a hiatus. The committee is composed of community members from various nonprofits and businesses. Tax deductible donations are accepted year round through the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation.

The fireworks committee thanks all those who support the fireworks display and invites people to follow the Grand Island Fireworks Celebration on Facebook for updates.