Fireworks have long been the grand finale to a day of celebration on the Fourth of July, dating back to 1776 when the Declaration of Independence separated the U.S. from Great Britain.
Dixon is no stranger to Fourth of July traditions, as can be seen in a photo from the Dixon Public Library Archive, dated 1909.
The Dixon Rotary Club has long been at the center of the City’s festivities, sponsoring the fireworks display for about 24 years, according to Rotarian Sandy George.
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“The fireworks show costs the Rotary Club $11,500,” says George, “the money comes from our fundraisers, and I drive around the park in a patriotically decorated golf cart on the 4th collecting donations from the community.”
J and M West Display, a pyrotechnic company based in Stockton, was hired to display the awe this year, and even provided Dixon with 10% more product for signing a contract to provide service for the next three years.
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Creating an engaging, 15-20 minute show is no easy fete, requiring six workers more than six hours to set up, in the 106 degree heat.
Dixon Patch caught up with the J and M pyrotechnic operations manager, John Willard, in the midst of the hot set up.
Willard, a 19-year pyrotechnic veteran, still has a passion for the firework choreography.
“I love lighting off the fireworks,” he explained with a glowing smile, “We light each one by hand, with a flare, except the eight inch and grand finale, those are strung together for safety. We want to pack in several at a time to really give Dixon a great show.”
And a great show it was, satisfying hundreds of Dixonites who rallied throughout Hall Park and the surrounding areas to view the spectacular.
If you would like to contribute to the Dixon Rotary Club fireworks fund, contact 678-4322.