OHIO — Celebrating Independence Day isn’t complete without a huge fireworks display, but as the coronavirus pandemic continues, Fourth of July celebrations will look a lot different.
Cleveland’s big July 4 fireworks show “Light Up the Lake” has been delayed until September, while Toledo’s annual celebration has been canceled.
Those near Cedar Point will see one of the biggest fireworks displays this weekend. For $20, people can come to the amusement park’s parking lot and watch fireworks from their car while still socially distancing. The money will be donated to the Sandusky State Theatre, OH Go, a nonprofit for disadvantaged young people and Second Harvest Food Bank of North Central Ohio.
“Because they’re fireworks and we can practice safe, social distancing, even though the park’s not ready, we thought why don’t we just do this anyway. Let’s bring some joy to the community, let’s bring some joy to three local organizations that could use those funds,” said Tony Clark, the director of communications at Cedar Point.
Dayton canceled its annual “Lights in Flight” fireworks festival as did Columbus’ “Red, White and Boom” celebration.
Cincinnati’s “Reds, White and Blue” fireworks show will still go on at Coney Island.
For the Youngstown area, the Canfield Fairgrounds will host a drive-in fireworks show for $10 a car.
“We have 353 acres, and so we have enough space. We have a very patriotic community, and there was a need for it and the fair board stepped up and took on the challenge,” said Dave Dickey, the director of Canfield Fair.
And what could be one of the more unique displays this holiday weekend is in Akron which is hosting four neighborhood fireworks shows simultaneously. City leaders are encouraging back yard celebrations where everyone can see the show from their home.
“Normally we’re packing everybody into downtown. This time we’re actually celebrating the neighborhoods and letting people get out to their neighborhoods, have their backyard parties and families over to have a safe environment,” said Chris Griffith, the Lock 3 park coordinator in Akron
