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OIL, FIREWORKS DO MIX: Destin ‘to proceed as normal' with pyrotechnic extravaganza
Start your weekend off with a bang at the city of Destin’s Second Annual Independence Day celebration and Bike Parade Friday at Morgan’s Sports Center.
City of Destin Recreation Manager Lance Johnson said that last year’s celebration was a success, with “several hundred people turning out.”
“We are just trying to create a family friendly event for people who want to enjoy a night in the park,” he said.
For a complete list of the fun to be had on the Emerald Coast this Fourth, click here.
The celebration will kick off with the Annual Bike Parade, where kids ages 14 and under are encouraged to decorate their bikes, scooters or wagons in a patriotic theme. The event will also feature kickball, moonwalks, ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, a four to five-minute fireworks show and a concert featuring songwriter and performing artist Chuck Lawson.
As tar balls steadily wash ashore on Destin beaches, Johnson said that the city is hoping the celebration will offer residents and visitors alike a distraction from the oil threat.
“One alternative we discussed would have been to cancel the show,” he said. “But we really need this as a community to help forget about everything that is going on around us for a few hours.”
After spending Friday evening at Morgan’s, those who haven’t had their fill of fireworks can attend the city of Destin’s Annual Fourth of July celebration, as fireworks will adorn the sky high above East Pass and the Destin harbor.
The location of the fireworks show is subject to change due to the uncertain nature of the oil spill. If necessary, Johnson said the show would be moved to Morgan’s Sports Center.
One concern is that the pyrotechnics company could have to go through an oil slick, which could spread oil contamination to other areas. The other concern is the protected wildlife that resides on the Eglin AFB property, as shifting winds can create a hazard for them.
As far as the oil catching fire from the sparks, Johnson has been told that “the tar balls are weathered and not flammable.”
“That is not an issue,” he added.
He said the decision of whether or not to relocate the show will be his for the most part, and that he “has to make a decision” by Thursday afternoon.
“It’s just kind of tricky,” Johnson told The Log. “The Air Force or the Coast Guard can call me whenever and make the decision for me.”
WANT TO GO?
The Annual Independence Day Celebration will take place July 2 at Morgan’s Sports Center, from 6 to 8 p.m., and check in for the bike parade will take place at 5 p.m. The City of Destin Annual fireworks show at East Pass starts at 9 p.m. July 4th. For more information on either event contact the City of Destin’s Recreation Department at 850-650-1241.
