Academy to host July 4 fireworks

Published July 6, 2009

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- The Air Force Academy plans an evening of family-oriented games, music and fireworks to celebrate the nation's birthday.

The celebration is open to the general public, and is the only event in Colorado Springs this year to have a fireworks display.

Academy official stress several points:

-- Parking will be extremely limited, so carpooling is strongly encouraged
-- All visitors should enter the Academy through the North Gate, Exit 156B from Interstate 25
-- Due to expected record-level attendance, people should arrive early
-- In the event of inclement weather, the celebration may be cancelled

Parking will be available at and near the Cadet Field House.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to watch and listen to weather reports for last minute developments.

Events start at 5 p.m. on the Academy athletic fields, with numerous paid activity games, including bouncy houses, climbing walls and a bungee trampoline, as well as food and beverage vendors.

Music will be broadcast by the Academy's cadet radio station, KAFA 97.7FM, before and during the fireworks show. The Blue Steel combo of the Air Force Academy Band will perform from 8:50 to 9:20 p.m.

The fireworks show will start at approximately 9:30 p.m. and is expected to last 20 minutes.

Visitors can bring cameras, lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas, and sealed plastic water bottles. But, visitors cannot bring coolers, barbecue grills, pets other than working service dogs, or fireworks. Water and portable restrooms will be provided.