What does it take to put on Highland’s Fourth of July Fireworks?
By Brittany Blackwell
Reporter • Since assuming responsibility for the city’s fireworks display in 2020, Highland Recreation Supervisor Hillary Held has learned that preparations for the annual tradition begin well before Independence Day.
“We start looking at contracts in February,” Held said.
This year’s show included approximately 810 fireworks and lasted slightly longer than usual, as crews added extra shells to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary.
While spectators see only the final performance, Held explained that preparations begin early on the day of the show. The city contracts Spectrum Pyrotechnics to supply the fireworks and local pyrotechnician Boe Yeager of Bunker Hill is contracted by the company to conduct the display.
“When the actual show happens, they’re close to 50 feet away,” Held said. “They press a button, and the show is automatic. They don’t physically set things off like they used to.”
For years, fireworks were launched from the hill on Koepfli Lane, offering scenic views for the community. This year, construction required organizers to move the launch site to the city’s nearby cemetery. Still, Glik Park was considered the best viewing spot.
“We need about a 500-foot range to clear for safety,” Held said.
Weather is another variable organizers monitor closely.
“We can still shoot them off in the rain but not with lightning,” Held said.
Held noted that one of the most significant learning lessons has been recognizing the extensive effort required for an event that lasts less than half an hour.
“It’s crazy that they start work at 7 a.m. and we don’t shoot them off until 9 p.m.,” she said.
After the final firework, the work continues. The pyrotechnics crew cleans the launch area overnight using blowers and truck headlights for visibility, then returns the next day to collect any remaining debris.
The parks and recreation department provides water, sports drinks, lunch and dinner throughout the long day.
“It’s just a nice gesture for all the work that goes into it,” Held said.
Other city departments also provide support.
For example, Held said the fire department remains on site throughout the event, police officers oversee traffic and public safety, and the electric department temporarily turns off city streetlights to enhance visibility.
“Every department is involved in some way,” Held said.
Securing funding for the annual display is a year-round effort.
The fireworks cost approximately $20,000 each year. While the city of Highland allocates funds in its budget, organizers aim for donations to cover at least half of the expenses.
The Highland Area Community Foundation manages contributions, enabling residents and businesses to donate throughout the year toward future displays.
Held reported that donations were slightly lower this year, but noted the city recently adopted a new online giving platform dedicated to fireworks. Those interested can donate on the city’s website by searching “July 4 Fireworks.”
Although Highland ended its festival that paired with the fireworks after the COVID-19 pandemic due to declining volunteer participation, city leaders remained committed to preserving the fireworks tradition.
“We struggled to get volunteers on the actual day,” Held said. “After COVID, we could not have imagined the lack of support.”
Still, for Held, seeing the community gather each Independence Day makes the months of preparation worthwhile.
