Twin Cities Fourth of July Fireworks Displays

Happy Fourth of July! This traditional holiday and three day weekend means barbeques, picnics, and gatherings of friends and family to many residents of the Twin Cities area. And let's not forget, of course, fireworks!

So where can you see professional fireworks in Twin Cities communities this weekend? As in the previous post, obviously you can see fireworks at the Taste of Minnesota in St. Paul Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. However, there are nearly two dozen communities in the seven-county metro area which will have fireworks displays this summer. You can see a map and find which display is closer to you here!

Celebrating the independence of our nation is a highlight of the summer in the state of Minnesota. Unfortunately, many people are injured or killed by consumer fireworks while celebrating. The Minneapolis Fire Department and surrounding Twin Cities communities would like to remind residents strive towards a responsible and safe Fourth of July weekend. Don’t drink and drive. Keep pets indoors. And if you are lighting off fireworks this weekend, please use these safety tips, and share them, to make sure that everyone has a safe 4th of July celebration.

• Read, understand and follow the instructions on each device prior to using.
• Use fireworks with close adult supervision.
• Choose a safe place to use fireworks. Fireworks should only be ignited outdoors and away from animals, buildings, storage tanks, brush or combustible materials.
• Anyone acting in an irresponsible manner or who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or other drugs should not handle or discharge fireworks.
• Keep fireworks away from small children and store them in a cool dry location away from sources of ignition (heat and flames). Fireworks should not be allowed to become wet and should not be used when dried after becoming wet.
• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or on your person.
• Lit cigarettes, cigars, pipes or open flames should be kept away from fireworks.
• Never ignite fireworks inside another container, such as inside a bottle or can.
• Eye protection is recommended for those using fireworks. Never throw fireworks or aim them at another person, animal or building.
• Only light one firework device at a time, then move away from the device quickly. Keep clear of any device that has been ignited, but has yet to go off.
• If a firework device has been ignited but fails to go off, stay clear of the device for an extended period of time to prevent injury due to delayed activation. Soak the device in water before handling it.
• Never place any part of your body, especially your head, over the firework device when lighting. Approach the item from the side and light it while keeping your body away from the item.
• Never relight malfunctioning fireworks. Report any defects back to the seller or the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
• Never experiment with fireworks, make your own fireworks, or alter fireworks in any manner (a strong federal prohibition exists for such activity).

Examples of items that are permitted include sparklers, cones and tubes that emit sparks, novelty items like snakes, and party poppers. Explosive and aerial fireworks are prohibited for public sale, possession and use in the State of Minnesota. Prohibited fireworks include, but are not limited to, firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles, roman candles, mortars and shells. Have a safe, responsible, and happy Fourth of July!