June 30, 2010
Fireworks for the Fourth!
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If you’re like most Americans, fireworks are in your plans for the Fourth of July in some way. Portland’s fireworks celebration is sure to be a great time at the Eastern Promenade Park and not only can you expect to enjoy some beautiful fireworks but there is also going to be a free Pops concert by the Portland Symphony Orchestra that will feature performances of Sousa, Gershwin and Tchaikovsky. The concert will kick this fun event off at 7:40 p.m. and will run right through the fireworks that begin at 9:20 p.m. If you can not join the celebration, feel free to listen to the live broadcast on WMEA 90.1, Maine’s Public Radio. The rain date for this event is scheduled for July 5th.
Private donations from founding members, the Portland Press Herald, Quirk Chevrolet, Wright Express and the Maine Red Claws support this event. Additional support was provided by Unum, Coca Cola Bottling of Northern New England, PowerPay, Time Warner, Boston Musicians Association, Parallax, Proprietors of Union Wharf, Maine Public Broadcasting Network, Seacoast RVs and the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad.
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An estimated 50,000 people will be watching throughout Portland so if you don not like huge crowds you may rather pick an alternative activity for your celebration. There will be vendors selling souvenirs, food and drinks along the Eastern Promenade and proceeds from the sales of all beverages will support future celebrations. Public restrooms are available at the East End Beach, Turner Street and Cutter Street. No pets are allowed at the event. There will also be several parking restrictions in the area.
Festiva Hospitality Group would like to remind everyone that fireworks are illegal in Maine so if you would like to see some great fireworks, your best option is to attend a community event such as this. You need a special permit to even have fireworks in your possession. Some examples of fireworks have been provided by the State Fire Marshal’s office. The list includes firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, roman candles, bombs, wheels, rockets, fountains, mines, serpents, and snap-n-pops. The list of exceptions they provided includes sparklers and morning glories as well as paper and plastic caps. Festiva would also like to remind you that there will also be criminal penalties against you if you are found with fireworks in your possession with the intent to sell them. If you have any questions on the laws in Maine regarding fireworks, feel free to contact the State Fire Marshal’s office at 207-287-3473! Festiva would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day!
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