Changes made to parking for Grand Island Fireworks

[GRAND ISLAND, NE June 26, 2025] Grand Island’s Community Fireworks Celebration is back for a third-consecutive year in 2025, and with the return of this 4th of July event comes a change in spectator parking.

Approved parking is now be located in the grassy areas behind the large livestock barns used during the State Fair as well as by Fire Station #1. The Luebbe Lot east of Stuhr Road will also be open beginning at 8:30 p.m. on the fourth. With new Grand Island Casino Resort parking and construction on the south Fonner Park parking lot, fireworks parking will not be allowed in the main parking lot.

“We want to be respectful of Fonner Park, and their campus partners, who are allowing us to use their space,” Fireworks Committee member Dana Jelinek said. “We are asking for everyone’s cooperation in parking in designated areas only and to not bring personal fireworks.”

The committee also wants spectators to be aware of back-up plans, should there be a weather event. The back-up date is July 5.

“Our number one rule is if we have lightning within 20 miles of the shoot site, we will wait 30 minutes before making a decision if we should postpone," J & M Displays Fireworks Contractor Don Wisniewski said.

The Grand Island Community Fireworks Celebration committee is made up of volunteers from nonprofit, local government and small businesses. Funding for this year’s event comes from community donations of $10 to $5,000. Lead donors for this year’s event are the Grand Island Casino Resort, Hornady, and Island Heating and Air. The broadcast sponsor is KRGI 105.5, with Fonner Park serving as the host site.

For information on how to donate, you may contact the Grand Island Community Foundation at (308) 381-7767. For information about the event, call Dana Jelinek at Grand Island Tourism at (308) 382-4400.