Emporia is celebrating the Fourth of July on the holiday.
The annual fireworks show will take place from just north of the Emporia State main campus. Pyrotechnician Bernie Toso says it will be a packed show.
On KVOE’s Morning Show this week, Toso also teased at least one new twist for the show but didn’t announce further details. Toso wants to begin the show around 9:45 pm. He’s expecting the show to last between 20-25 minutes. With storm chances possible, Toso says the show will go on. The fireworks will be weatherproofed as they are set up.
The night will feature something new — the Emporia Municipal Band performing on site at Welch Stadium. Conductor Nancy Riecker says it’s an idea that makes a lot of sense, given the band’s schedule of Thursday night concerts at Fremont Park.
The band will be performing on the west side of Welch Stadium between Zola Witten Track and Jones Field. beginning at 8 pm and ending at 9.
As has been the case since the show moved to Emporia about a decade ago, the best viewing points will be inside Welch Stadium and the north practice fields outside the Student Recreation Center. Stadium seating will open at 7 pm and will be available on the west side of the stadium. People wanting to sit on Jones Field are asked to bring blankets but are also asked not to bring chairs, gum or sunflower seeds.
Tailgating will also be allowed on campus starting at 7 pm, but alcohol, glass containers and personal fireworks are prohibited on campus. Handicapped-accessible parking will be available at the Art Annex on Highland Street. Emporia State’s soccer pitch will be off limits for viewing.
