It’s been waaaay too long.
After a 2-year COVID-induced absence, Westport’s Independence Day fireworks — the biggest, best party in town — are back.
They’re a bit before the big day, though: June 30. That’s a Thursday. It’s a great way to blast off the holiday weekend. (July 4th is the following Monday.)
The event is a fundraiser for the Westport Police Athletic League. It’s run by our Parks & Recreation Department, with great help from the Westport Police and Fire Departments, and Emergency Medical Services.
The 2019 fireworks — the last time Westporters enjoyed the show. (Photo/David Squires)
Long time Westport residents Melissa and Doug Bernstein will once again sponsor and underwrite the fireworks. They say, “We’re beyond thrilled to partner again with PAL to bring this amazing celebration back to Westport. We can’t wait to see our incredible community celebrating together again at Compo Beach on June 30th!”
If you’ve been to the fireworks, you know what’s in store: thousands of people picnicking at Compo, and strolling from Soundview to South Beach; music, a marching band, and a “block party” with a great, neighborly vibe.
In a few hours, all those chairs will be filled with people. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)
If you’ve never been: Be sure to get a ticket. That’s the only way to park at Compo.
Ticket sales begin tomorrow (Friday, June 3, at Police headquarters (50 Jesup Road) and the Parks & Rec office at Longshore (near the 1st tee). The cost is $40 per vehicle.
Tickets are limited, and first-come, first-served. When they sell out, shuttle passes will be available from Longshore.
Westport PAL president Craig Bergamo (2nd from left) presents fireworks ticket #1 to Doug and Melissa Bernstein. Also shown (from left): Police Chief Foti Koskinas, 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, Parks & Recreation director Jennifer Fava, Deputy Police Chief Sam Arciola.
July 4th is a Monday this year!
Thursday night. In June?
Fairfield’s is Saturday night, 7/2. Same crew.
June 30? Not very optimal. People still do work.
So silly they didn’t have it last year when Covid cases were much lower than this year. Plus it’s an outdoor event. I’m glad it’s back!
Thank you PAL and Doug and Melissa for all you do for our community. The date should be the least of any of our worries. Look forward to again supporting our Westport PAL and being part of a nice community event.