Alamosa July 4th Fireworks Canceled

The Alamosa July 4 fireworks display has been canceled this year due to ongoing drought conditions and concern over the risk of community fires such as the recent one in Monte Vista. Since 1997 the fireworks display has been an ongoing partnership between San Luis Valley Federal Bank and the City of Alamosa. This show has been canceled only once, in 2020, due to Covid-19. In 2013 due to similar dry conditions, it was rescheduled from July 4 to Labor Day weekend. 

SLV Federal Bank CEO Mark Bechaver said, “We’ve been happy to provide our financial support for the show for so many years, but given the dry conditions and fire risks, our Board of Directors decided we should not sponsor a show this year. We look forward to continuing our support in the future.”

Duane Bussey, who has coordinated the show, indicated the shoot team, many have been firing the show since 1997, all agreed the current conditions were not ideal for a show. “We have two licensed pyrotechnicians, Darrell Meis and Jarrod Lucero, and an experienced crew. Despite our many years of experience, and outstanding support from the City’s Fire and Police Departments, we recommended canceling the show. Many other communities in Colorado are making this same decision, so we are not alone with our concerns.”

Andy Rice, the City of Alamosa Parks, Recreation, and Library Director said, “The City supports San Luis Valley Federal’s decision and looks forward to a future partnership when conditions are more appropriate. Everyone can still enjoy the Annual Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at the San Luis Valley Federal Bank Parking Lot and the Parade Downtown.”