Where can you watch fireworks in the Kansas City area amid COVID-19? A July 4 guide
If watching a big fireworks display on the Fourth of July is an absolute must for your family, don’t despair.
Even though most area Independence Day celebrations have been canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic — and virtually all others have been cut back — explosions, sparkles and arrays will still fill some of the local sky.
A warning: You might have to drive a bit to see them, especially if you live in Missouri.
Olathe, Gardner, Leavenworth, Oak Grove, Smithville and Weston are among cities that have pared back their celebrations to fireworks only. Leavenworth and Smithville have moved the launching locations of the fireworks so they can be visible from more areas.
Most organizers are encouraging people to watch from their vehicles, and all are urging social distancing.
With the recent cancellation of Overland Park’s Star Spangled Spectacular at Corporate Woods Founders Park, all of the region’s biggest Fourth of July celebrations now are wiped out. The city of Overland Park announced its demise June 30, citing the recent increase in coronavirus cases in Johnson County and Kansas. Officials previously had said the celebration would be limited to a fireworks display, with no food or drink sales, live music or entertainment or other activities.
Among other major events that have been canceled are KC Riverfest at Berkley Riverfront Park, the Parkville Fourth of July Carnival, the Legacy Blast in Lee’s Summit, Parked! in Shawnee, Liberty Fest and the combined fireworks show of Roeland Park, Fairway and Westwood.
Lansing has postponed its celebration until Labor Day weekend, and Raymore until Patriot Day (Sept. 11).
Here is a breakdown of the holiday weekend. Unless otherwise noted, events are on July 4.
Edgerton
What: Community Picnic and Fireworks Show (games and food will be available).
When: 6 p.m. July 3
Where: Martin Creek Park
Info: edgertonks.org
Paola
What: Fireworks only.
When: Dusk July 3
Where: Lake Miola
Info: paolachamber.chambermaster.com, 913-294-4335
Worlds of Fun
What: Fourth of July Celebration with fireworks.
When: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave.
Info: $39.99 (reservations required); worldsoffun.com, 816-303-5120
Oak Grove
What: Fireworks only.
When: 10 p.m.
Where: Bent Oak Park (gates will be closed; watch from surrounding area)
Info: cityofoakgrove.com
Olathe
What: Fireworks only.
When: 9:45 p.m.
Where: College Boulevard Activity Complex (athletic fields, stadium stands, concession areas and Prairie Trail Middle School will not be accessible).
Info: olatheks.org
Stilwell, Johnson County
What: Parade and fireworks.
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Parade, 192nd Street; fireworks, Evergy Service Center, 19950 Newton
Info: stilwellcommunity.org
Gardner
What: Fireworks only.
When: 10 p.m.
Where: Celebration Park
Info: gardnerkansas.gov
Leavenworth
What: Fireworks only.
When: 9 p.m.
Where: Fort Leavenworth (no public access to the fort)
Info: visitleavenworthks.com, 913-684-1674
Smithville
What: Fireworks only.
When: Dusk
Where: Smithville Lake
Info: smithvillechamber.org
Weston
What: Fireworks only.
When: 9:45 p.m.
Where: Weston City Park
Info: westonmo.com, 816-640-2909
Here are other activities that don’t involve fireworks.
Lenexa
What: Virtual Freedom Run 5K and 10K.
When: July 1-4
Where: Runner’s choice
Info: $20; lenexa.com
Prairie Village
What: VillageFest To Go drive-thru event.
When: 9-11 a.m. July 4
Where: 77th Street and Mission Road
Info: pvkansas.com, 913-381-6464
Prairiefire in Overland Park
What: Stars & Stripes 5K (multiple accommodations for COVID-19)
When: 7:30 a.m. July 5
Where: 5661 W. 135th, Overland Park
Info: $36; starsandstripes5k.com
This story was originally published June 30, 2020 at 5:00 AM.
