With the Fourth of July just days away, one of the highlights of Fourth of July celebrations is undoubtedly the fireworks displays.
“We shall go wild with fireworks… And they will plunge into the sky and shatter the darkness.” -Natsuki Takaya
The array of colors that illuminate the sky during firework displays are generated by various minerals. Strontium creates red hues, copper produces blues, barium chloride yields green, and sodium, the fourth most abundant mineral in the world, produces yellows. Gray and white fireworks result from combinations of titanium, zirconium, and magnesium. Lavender shades emerge from a mix of copper and strontium.
The finale is eagerly awaited by spectators, characterized by thunderous bangs and dazzling bursts of colorful fireworks crafted from aluminum powder. Throughout the display, the crowd resonates with expressions of wonder, with “oohs” and “ahhs” echoing through the air, leaving onlookers spellbound.
Several community events promise unforgettable fireworks shows:
• Brownsville Days: Brownsville will celebrate with fireworks during the town’s annual Brownsville Days organized by the Brownsville Lions Club. On Saturday, June 29, the fireworks are set to begin at dusk, at approximately 9:28 p.m. The fireworks go off in the field behind the ballpark. The ballpark is located on North 7th Street.
• Hesper Nite Lite Fireworks: On Wednesday, July 3, the village of Hesper, Iowa, welcomes visitors to enjoy fireworks display starting at dusk, at 9:27 p.m. Insider tip: Park west of Hesper on Hwy. A14.
• Eitzen Fourth of July Celebration: Eitzen’s popular Fourth of July celebration from July 2-4, culminates on Thursday evening with fireworks at dusk, scheduled for 9:26 p.m. The display, valued at over $10,000 will illuminate the sky from 307 Iowa Ave, sponsored by the Eitzen Lion’s Club. The fireworks are fairly visible from anywhere in town.
• Harmony, Minn., Fireworks: Also on Thursday, July 4, Harmony hosts its annual fireworks display at North Park, starting at dusk (9:26 p.m.) Presented by the Harmony Volunteer Fire Department and sponsored by The City of Harmony, First Southeast Bank of Harmony and Canton, Harmony Fireman’s Relief Association, and Harmony Conservation Club. Insider tip: Park along Hwy. 44 opposite the golf course for the best view.
Make plans now to see one or a couple area firework displays. Go early and enjoy community celebrations at Brownsville, Eitzen, and Harmony which include a grand parade, games, live music, and local fare.
Thank you to the area Fire Departments, Lions Clubs, sponsors, and volunteers who make these celebrations and firework displays come true.
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