STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-May 12, 2020-Facing uncertainty across the state and locally to the extent of public gatherings over the coming months, the City of Steamboat Springs has decided to cancel the Fourth of July Fireworks and Laser Show this year.
“We are like many other municipalities that are experiencing uncertainties around public gatherings this summer,” said City Manager Gary Suiter. “Faced with those unknowns, along with the city’s ability to provide adequate support services, the fireworks show just does not seem feasible for 2020.”
This year’s Fourth of July celebration falls on a Saturday, drawing additional apprehension that the event would attract a large crowd, which would not align with public health gathering limitations, even if those moved to 50 or 100 person levels. Additional concerns around community safety played a strong factor, like police, fire and emergency medical services. In addition, the requirement of a large volunteer staff for set up was an additional physical distancing concern.
Despite yesterday’s rain, conditions across the Yampa Valley are drying out quickly, raising potential wildfire fears to the list of items lining up against the fireworks show this summer. “We’re just into May and much of the state has already seen their first red flag warnings,” commented Interim Fire Chief Chuck Cerasoli. “The area’s first wildfire sparked up already and long-range forecasts are showing areas of concern with warmer and drier weather patterns. These things don’t paint a promising picture for fireworks compounding the public health issues.”
Discussions are ongoing with the Steamboat Springs Chamber, Main Street Steamboat Springs and other organizations around how the daytime celebrations may be affected or modified considering this announcement as well as public health orders in effect. It should be noted, monies for the fireworks celebration have been placed in the 2021 budget, which comes before City Council in October 2020 and is ratified in November and December.
“This decision has been difficult to say the least,” continued Suiter. “Based on what we know now around gatherings, it seems appropriate to make this decision now instead of waiting. As we make our way through this new normal, we hope the community will understand our direction, and work with us to remain flexible and adapt to changing circumstances over the coming months.”
This is the first year the city has cancelled the fireworks outside of fire restrictions which occurred in 2012, 2017 and 2018. The city would like to thank the Borden family, along with several business sponsors and a long list of city departments and volunteers, that have partnered in hosting the evening extravaganza that lights up the sky annually.
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Contact
Gary Suiter, City Manager, 970.871.8240 or email
Winnie DelliQuadri, Special Projects/Intergovernmental Services Manager, 970.871.8257 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email