STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. – It’s beginning to feel like Mother Nature doesn’t want us to show our patriotic spirit in the form of fireworks across Colorado this year.
On Thursday, City of Steamboat Springs officials said their annual fireworks show was canceled due to hot, dry conditions “and a heightened fire concern across the state.”
In lieu of fireworks, the city will celebrate Independence Day with a laser show at Howelsen Hill that evening. All other events associated with the Fourth of July celebrations will continue as scheduled, officials said.
“This decision is never an easy one,” said Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue Chief Mel Stewart. “With several wildland fires around the state and local conditions showing no improvements in the near future, this was the most prudent course of action and I hope everyone understands.”
Officials said the laser show will be put on by Las Vegas Lasers. A DJ will kick off the show around 8 p.m., with the lasers lighting up the night at around 9:45 p.m.
Based on rehearsals, the best viewing location for the laser show will be at the base of Howelsen Hill; however, it will also be visible at other locations within line of sight to the Howelsen Hills jumps, city officials said.
Steamboat Springs is second Colorado city to cancel firework show this year because of dry conditions
The announcement from Steamboat Springs officials comes two days after the Town of Telluride said it was canceling its 4th of July fireworks show this year because of severe drought.
On Tuesday, officials with the Telluride Fire Protection District said the patriotic display of lights over Telluride’s Town Park was canceled due to “one of the most severe droughts seen in decades.”
On June 12, the Town of Telluride unanimously imposed a ban on open fires and fireworks during a Town Council meeting.
That came just eight days after the San Miguel County Sheriff had implemented Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, which has virtually banned all open fires and has made smoking a restricted activity across the town.
Firefighters there will still put on their annual 4th of July barbeque in Town Park following the annual parade to help support nonprofits in the area.
