Three options to see Fourth of July shows in area

June 28, 2022 — There will be three options for large firework shows over the Fourth of July weekend. First in Dunes City on Saturday, July 2, then in Florence and Mapleton on Monday, July 4.

First, on Saturday, July 2 at 10 p.m. the sky above Siltcoos Lake will be the sight of a patriotic display as Darlings Marina & RV Resort will put on its annual fireworks show called the “Sparkle on the Siltcoos.”

While Darlings is sold out of wristbands for those wishing to watch the show from the porch or beach located at the marina and RV park, the show can be seen from the shore or on a boat at most locations on the west side of the lake.

Darlings graciously provides these fireworks to the Siltcoos community free of charge. Those wishing to make a financial donation for this, and future year’s shows, can do so at the Darlings offices, 4879 Darlings Loop in Dunes City. For questions call 541-997-2841.

The upriver community will get their own holiday display for the holiday.

Mapleton’s Fourth of July firework show will start at approximately 9:45 p.m.

According to the Mapleton Oregon Fireworks Facebook page, the best views will be on the bridge or on the Port of Siuslaw’s public docks on the Siuslaw River.

Those who wish to donate to the Mapleton fireworks show can do so here www.paypal.me/MapletonFireworks.

The City of Florence, the Port of Siuslaw and the Florence Chamber of Commerce have come together this year to present Florence’s annual Fourth of July fireworks display.

The fireworks will be shot over the Siuslaw River from the east end of the Port of Siuslaw Campground in Historic Old Town beginning at about 10 p.m. on July 4. The location provides a multitude of great vantage points for spectators with the colorful 30-minute program reflecting off the river.

The port, the city, and the chamber will be working with the experts at Western Display Fireworks. Each organization is jointly funding the big event, which totals more than $24,000.

“We look forward to celebrating our nation’s independence and encourage everyone in Florence to find safe and fun ways to celebrate Independence Day this year, and to look to the skies that evening for the beautiful display we have planned,” said Florence Area Chamber of Commerce.

Besides the fireworks show, Florence Habitat for Humanity and the City of Florence have organized a communitywide Porch Parade from June 27 to July 4, and a Bicycle Parade down Bay Street on July 4, along with the annual pie and watermelon eating contests, music, and other fun during the day in Historic Old Town Florence.

For the Porch Parade, businesses and residents were encouraged to decorate their porch, yard, or front window to show their patriotic community spirit. To see a map showing all registered participants go to www.florencehabitat.org/.

The Bike Parade registration is from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at Gazebo Park in Old Town. The parade begins at 10 a.m. Decorate your bike, scooter, wagon, or yourself, and bring your family and friends down to the parade in Old Town.

The annual pie and watermelon eating contests, coordinated by Florence Habitat for Humanity, will take place in the grassy area of the Port of Siuslaw Parking lot at the east end of Bay Street. Registration is at noon and the competition begins at 2p.m. Each category is limited to the first 36 people to register in each category — ages 5 to 10 years, 11 to 15 years, and 16 plus.

Music and entertainment by DJ Al Rojas starts at the Port property at 8 p.m. Patriotic music by KCST 106.9 FM will accompany the fireworks show.

Businesses, civic clubs, or individuals interested in making any size contribution to demonstrate their appreciation and offset the cost of Florence’s 4^th of July celebration are asked to contact Bettina Hannigan at 541-997-3128 or mail/drop off a check at the Chamber’s Visitors Center, 290 Highway 101.