Fourth of July: Tallahassee Style

 

The capital will sparkle brighter than ever this Fourth of July at Tom Brown Park.  The 255-acre park will transform into a patriotic display of red, white and blue fireworks and entertainment. Jan Bubsey, Celebrate America Executive Director, says the city budget of $20,000 helps to cover the cost of the annual tradition.

“Celebrate America is one of the top three events in Tallahassee,” said Bubsey. “It’s just a wonderful community wide celebration to bring together citizens of Tallahassee and surrounding counties.”

In addition to the celebration, residents can expect to see new types of shell patterns in the show says pyrotechnics professional Jeff Matthews.

“Our fireworks are imported from around the world but the majority are from China,” said Matthews.  “Look for our new jellyfish, star, and smiley face pattern shells this year.”

The 20-minute showcase will featuring approximately 2,000 lbs. of 1.3G explosive fireworks synchronized to today’s contemporary and patriotic songs.

Event highlights include a naturalization ceremony for 13 citizens, two stages of entertainment featuring local artists, pony rides, food vendors and the fireworks for the finale. Tallahassee’s bus system, Star Metro, will offer free shuttle service to and from Tom Brown Park starting at 5:30 p.m.

Florida A&M University art professor Noble Sissle shared tips on how to get good seats to the extravaganza this year.

“Get there like four hours early to get a good comfortable spot in the park,” said Sissle. “Once you see the fireworks, you have to prepare yourself for at least a two hour wait time to leave the park because of traffic.”

The Tallahassee Police Department and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office will direct traffic and visitors to limit confusion. Spectators are prohibited from bringing various items like their own fireworks, which include sparklers, alcoholic beverages and animals, except for service animals. FAMU alumna Stacy Tenor has attended the event for the last several years and does not plan on breaking his family’s tradition.

“My family and I enjoy the fireworks at Tom Brown Park last year. This year we plan to go earlier and enjoy the event inside the park.”

For more information visit http://www.talgov.com/parks/parks-ca.aspx or call (850) 891-3860.