NewsSarasota, Manatee County

Actions

City of North Port to hold drive-in fireworks display for Fourth of July

Posted at 7:28 PM, May 15, 2020
and last updated 2020-05-15 19:28:35-04

NORTH PORT, Fla. — The City of North Port is inviting the community to a special fireworks-only display for Independence Day.

To adhere to CDC social distancing guidelines, the annual Freedom Festival has been amended to a drive-in fireworks show. The show will be launched from the North Port High School site.

Attendees can park in the lots at North Port High School, Heron Creek Middle School and Butler Park.

Parking will open at 8 p.m. to make sure attendees can make it in time for the 9 p.m. showing. Attendees can also enjoy music for the show on WKDW 97.5 FM.

The display is expected to end around 9:30 p.m.

“We are very grateful that North Port High School worked with us on short notice to move the display launch area to their property. Additionally, we appreciate how gracious the Atlanta Braves have been as our hosts for the Freedom Festival and their flexibility during these challenging times. We look forward to collaborating with them in the future to host the Freedom Festival when we can again resume planning larger festival-type events,” said Laura Ansel, Marketing & Outreach Coordinator.

The following safety precautions are planned:

  • Attendees will be asked to park in every other parking space
  • No tailgating, alcohol, personal fireworks, or sparklers will be permitted
  • The North Port High School stadium, and all green spaces surrounding the three parking areas will remain closed to public gatherings
  • The festival vendors and activities that encourage gathering will be canceled
  • Restroom and handwashing facilities will be made available at all three parking lots

You can also livestream the event on the Parks and Recreation Facebook page.