neighbors react to fireworks cancellation

MILWAUKEE — The annual July 3rd fireworks display at the lake will not take place this year due to a lack of sponsorship, according to the Milwaukee County Parks Department.

The Parks Department says fireworks alone cost about $350,000, but there’s an additional $20,000 on average for additional staff hours, overtime, dumpsters, fencing and portable toilets.

“This allows us to spread out staff and resources and focus on other events happening in Milwaukee County,” said Guy Smith, executive director of Milwaukee County Parks. “This approach ensures we can provide amenities and recreational spaces to the public 365 days a year.”

Smith said in a press release that this opportunity better fits their “mission to maintain welcoming spaces for everyone to gather and enjoy the outdoors.”

TMJ4 caught up with Rakhi Shah and Kristen Bailey on a bike ride to get their reaction to the cancellation.

“I’m a little shocked because I know how important it is,” Shah said.

Bailey had attended the show in the past and really enjoyed it.

“I feel like families can come here and the kids really enjoy it and everything, so it’s disappointing that they can’t do it,” Bailey said.

Kristen Bailey says she’s disappointed the fireworks were canceled this year. She already came and said they were really fun.

Scott Fisher owns Gift of Wings on the lake. He was preparing for the Family Kite Festival when he heard the news.

“It’s probably one of our best days of the year, and it’s also one of the funniest days of the year,” Fisher said.

Fisher has been watching the fireworks and the families who come to enjoy the show for more than 30 years.

He hopes a major sponsor will step in and fund the fireworks this year.

“There are families that come here every year,” Fisher said. “It’s kind of like a religious thing!”

Alternative celebrations will take place in place of the fireworks.

Fourth of July fireworks and celebrations in Milwaukee County include:

Hales Corners: Hales Corners Park
Cudahy: Sheridan Park
Glendale: Kletzsch Park
South Milwaukee: Grant Park
City of Milwaukee:
Alcott Park
Wilson Park
Mitchell Park
Washington Park
Noyes Park
Lincoln Park
Jackson Park
Humboldt Park
Gordon Park
Lake Park
King Park (No fireworks – celebration only)

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