Fireworks have been given the green light to launch this Independence Day in Durango.
The city announced plans to launch pyrotechnics this Fourth of July in May, but it cautioned that the fireworks display would be dependent on weather and fire conditions.
Recent rains make conditions safe enough to blow up the skies with fireworks, as is the time-honored American tradition, according to the city and Durango Fire Protection District.
“The recent rains have made a huge impact on our ability to proceed with the fireworks,” Fire Chief Randy Black said.
He said the city and fire department have been in constant contact about fireworks plans.
For the first time, the launch zone for fireworks will not be located at Greenmount Cemetery, according to a city news release.
“Instead, residents should look toward Smelter Mountain for the fireworks display,” the release says.
The fireworks show will be coordinated at Durango’s Off the Leash Dog Park and is scheduled for 9:15 p.m. Thursday.
The city said it is testing the new location at the dog park “for its visibility and ability to defend the space in case of a fire.”
The fire department will have personnel on site.
Sluis said the relocation is a big deal for the city.
According to the city, most locals’ preferred viewing spots will still be viable to watch the spectacle this year.
“The dog park is approximately 120 feet lower elevation than the previously used cemetery launch site. The fireworks will travel over 400 feet in the air and the craggy rocks towards the top of Smelter Mountain will provide a dramatic backdrop for the show,” the release says.
The show itself is being held by Zambelli Fireworks. Durango budgeted $35,000 for the Independence Day display. The fireworks show is primed to be the city’s first since 2019.
“At last, fireworks return,” Durango Community Events Administrator Ellen Babers said in the release.
She credited the weather and DFPD for allowing the show to go on.
“The fire district has been a proactive and collaborative partner in finding a solution for this year’s and hopefully future years fireworks shows,” she said.
Open hours at Off the Leash Dog Park on Thursday will be adjusted to accommodate fireworks operations.
The park will be open at dawn and close at 1 p.m. It will resume regular hours next Friday, according to the city.
Along with the fireworks show, the city is hosting its annual Fourth of July Street Dance at the Durango Transit Center at 250 W. Eighth St. Fireworks at Smelter Mountain will be directly visible from there.
Street food and live music performed by The Motet, a Denver-based American funk, soul and jazz group, and Durango band Desert Child are planned to be featured at the Transit Center, the city says.
The city suggests Rim Drive at Fort Lewis College, Santa Rita Park and downtown as optimal viewing locations for the fireworks show.
“It is expected that people as far north as the Recreation Center and the La Plata County Fairgrounds will also be able to see the show,” the release says.
cburney@durangoherald.com
