Pensacola set to host extravagant July 4 fireworks show

PENSACOLA, Fla. — Pensacola is preparing for what organizers say will be the largest fireworks display the Gulf Coast has ever seen.

1,400 rockets will light up the night sky Thursday to celebrate the Fourth of July.

“Any time you have fireworks over the water, it’s really exciting,” said Todd Thomson, president of the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce. “We’ll also have this big bridge behind us. It’s a great backdrop for the fireworks.”

The Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Pensacola Young Professionals and Cat Country 98.7 Radio collaborated to bring this fireworks display to life.

This is the second year in a row that they have come together to do so.

“It’s been a great partnership for us, just to be able to help put on this great event for Pensacola that’s been around for 30 to 40 years,” said Anna Lochas, president of Pensacola Young Professionals.

The show will last approximately 18 minutes and will include approximately $65,000 worth of fireworks, including four rare 10-inch mortars in the finale.

The fireworks will be launched from the Pensacola Harbor.

“If you could find a bigger boom anywhere, I’d be surprised,” said Brent Lane of Cat Country Radio. “It’s going to be an incredible show.”

Another unique aspect is that the show will be 100% synchronized with the music of Cat Country Radio.

Lane says to bring a radio to get the best experience.

“That’s the only time what you see on the air matches what you hear on the radio,” he said. “If you have a platform that you’re streaming to, you’re not going to get quite the same effect.”

Spectators will be able to set up chairs along Bayfront Parkway to relax and enjoy the show. There will also be food trucks.

“Come, reserve your place, it’s going to be a great day,” Thomson said.

Bayfront Parkway will be blocked off starting at 2 p.m. for the show. Food trucks will arrive at 4 p.m., while the fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.