On Sunday, July 4, the Garretson Post #23 of the American Legion will hold its annual fireworks display, with a slight location change and a new set up.
The display will happen at dusk at the Jaycees Sports Complex instead of the football field.
Late last year the Garretson School District had requested that the Legion remove the display from the football field due to debris and a ban on explosives on school property. At the same time, the Legion wanted to bring in some updates to the display.
The Legion voted to bring on JR Hofer, a former Garretson firefighter whose personal displays have rivaled those the Legion put on. Last year, due to a miscommunication, both displays happened nearly simultaneously, delighting and disappointing those who were watching- delighted because the sky was lit up in two directions, and disappointed because they wanted to watch both, which could be difficult depending on where one was seated.
However, Hofer knew his displays would soon be coming to an end, as the land at the end of his street is being developed into the new Sarah C Street housing, which meant he was available and ready to help.
After some discussion, a raffle was held in order to improve the display, and it was moved to the softball fields after the city council approved the use of the land. The raffle was successful, which meant a better display for both 2021 and the start of fundraising for 2022.
The fireworks display will be held this Sunday at dusk. The Legion requests attendees bring a lawn chair, as seating will not be provided.
The City is reminding residents that fireworks are not allowed between 2nd and 4th Streets on Main Avenue, as well as one block to the east and west of Main between those streets. The County is reminding everyone that despite a bit of rain this past weekend, drought conditions are making for a high fire risk everywhere.
Fireworks will be allowed to be discharged in South Dakota until July 11 this year, though being considerate of noise for those with small children, PTSD, and animals is a good idea.
