After a two-year absence due to COVID restrictions and challenges, The Rotary Club of Ventura is bringing back the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show and Family Picnic at the Ventura College athletic fields. This year, the event will be held on Sunday, July 3rd with gates opening at 5 pm and the fireworks show beginning at approximately 9 pm.
Mr. Ken Leandro, Rotary event chairperson, explains, “When we contacted the pyrotechnic companies at the start of year, they could not guarantee that they would have an experienced operator available on July 4th. Their business, like many others, imploded the past two years and is facing staffing challenges. Since the dates fall on Sunday/Monday this year, we decided to hold event on Sunday, July 3rd to ensure we have an expert pyrotechnic operator and a world-class fireworks show. We’re so excited to bring the event back, and this year’s show will be awesome!”
The event almost didn’t come back because of funding challenges too. Mr. Rob Van Nieuwburg, president of Ventura Rotary, explains, “Costs to put the event on have skyrocketed, and our biggest sponsor in past years was not able to return at that level. A couple months ago we were facing a bleak outlook.” Thankfully, two local companies have stepped up as major new sponsors ensuring the event is held. “We’re so grateful that The Trade Desk is supporting the event. This dynamic company was launched within a technology incubator program at Ventura’s City Hall and their support is indicative of their roots and commitment here,” says Van Nieuwburg.
Ventura Rotary also gives big thanks to major new sponsor Wheelhouse.
Ventura Rotary is also grateful for the businesses and organizations that have continued to support the event including the Ventura Auto Center, Hofer Properties, Community Memorial Health Systems, EJ Harrison, and the Crown Plaza Ventura Beach.
Says Van Nieuwburg, “All proceeds from this event directly support the local charity work that Rotary does year-round including programs like Coats for Kids, 3rd grade dictionaries, Perspectives on Peace college scholarships, essay contests, holiday events for underprivileged kids, weekly free eye clinics and much more.” Leandro adds, “So when a family buys a ticket to the event, or a business supports through sponsorship, they really are contributing to their own community.”
As in past years, the event is family-focused with a Kids Zone featuring many bounce houses and organized games like potato sack races and water balloon toss. This year, thanks to sponsors, fun on the bounce houses is included with child’s admission!
Families can bring a picnic, a blanket and soft low back folding chairs, and there will also be tasty food available from several Food Trucks. The main stage will have live music and fun giveaways. (No glass. No alcohol. No pets.)
Tickets are available for online purchase at www.VenturaFireworks.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate (cash only at the gate). For more information, please visit www.VenturaFireworks.com where details are updated regularly.
Note: The VPD wants to remind you that fireworks are illegal in the City of Ventura.
Fourth of July is synonymous with sun, fun, barbequing, and fireworks. The Ventura Police and Fire Departments encourage community members to enjoy a safe and sane Fourth of July and do their part to help prevent fires and injuries caused by illegal fireworks.
During the Fourth of July holiday weekend, the Ventura Police Department will deploy as many police resources as possible to help catch fireworks violators. If you see a neighbor lighting fireworks, call 9-1-1 if the activity is in-progress or poses an immediate threat to yourself or others.
Anyone found in possession of fireworks, or caught using them, could be fined up to $1,000 and/or receive a jail term of up to a year.
