Donations Needed to Close Fireworks Funding Gap

[GRAND ISLAND, NE June 25, 2025] The Grand Island Community Fireworks Committee is asking for additional donations to meet this year’s fundraising goal.

$4,000 is still needed to balance the 2025 budget and to avoid dipping into the reserves. A reserve exists to pay expenses needed prior to fundraising campaigns for the following year. However, that reserve may have to be tapped into if an additional $4,000 can’t be raised.

2026 also marks the nation’s 250th anniversary, creating high demand and the need for early booking. Any future donations will not only help close this year’s gap, but also help secure expenses associated with the 2026 show.

“We were advised to book the 2026 event two years ago because of anticipated demand, and now we have to secure that booking,” Geis said.

Businesses and individuals can give tax deductible donations through the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation by designating the donation is for the fireworks display. The foundation accepts donations through their website, gicf.org, and at their office at 1503 W. 2nd St., Grand Island NE 68801. The Grand Island Community Fireworks Display is a component project of the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation.

The Grand Island Fireworks display committee was formed out of the 150th anniversary celebration of Grand Island’s settlement, on July 4, 1857. It was intended to bring back a community fireworks display following a brief hiatus.

“When people missed the fireworks, they said, ‘someone’ should bring it back,” Committee Member Dana Jelinek said. “People don’t realize they are the ‘someone’ who can help by volunteering or donating."

For more information, contact Jelinek at (308) 382-4400 or by visiting the Grand Island Fireworks Celebration Facebook page.