Bangor To Bring July 4 Fireworks Back To Waterfront in 2024

"We're going back down to the river, on the waterfront behind Tim Hortons."

Tony Bernatche has been President of the Greater Bangor 4th of July Corporation for the past 18 years.

He said that historically, the committee has set them off along the river. But on a couple of occasions in the past, like last year, they moved things up to Bass Park.

"The reason we went to Bass Park last year is because we had that concert with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra and The Stone Doctors inside the concert venue."

He said the fireworks, which are typically sold by the diameter, require specific space around them. The bigger the fireworks, the more space is needed.

"With the location on the river, we can only shoot up to a 4" ball because they need a safety zone clearance. We went to Bass Park so we could go back to 5" shells."

While some folks said it was a great show, inside of the concert venue no one could see the fireworks. Bernatche said the new footprint of the Maine Savings Amphitheater made it next-to impossible for people to see them.

So naturally, people complained.

But Bernatche says weather permitting, this year everyone will have a good view of the celebration in the sky.

"Last year didn't work as well as we were hoping for inside of the concert venue, so we're going to be completely down on the waterfront, with a mobile stage down on the waterfront for the Stone Doctors (the Rolling Stones tribute band.) And the fireworks will be shot off downstream, behind the stage. So if you're sitting there watching the concert, you'll have a pretty good view of the fireworks."

Bernatche says the concert will be set up near the big compass down at the edge of the waterfront.

The concert is free, but they do take donations. Onew hundred percent of what they collect will go straight to the Lafayette Cancer Center's Pediatric Division to help families with kids going through cancer.

Related: Bar Harbor July 4 Celebration Guide

"Anywhere around the river, Bangor or Brewer side, between the bridges, you're going to have a really great view."

He says it's estimated that 40,000 people come to town each year to watch the fireworks.

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"It's the single biggest draw of any event in the City of Bangor."

The day is slated to start off with a pancake breakfast and a 5K, then the 4th of July Parade. The concert and fireworks will round out the evening's festivities.

You can find out more info about what's planned in Bangor for the 4th, by checking out this website.