Fireworks show

2/21/2003

Columbus will hold its regular fireworks show downtown July 3 with a new Bicentennial focus. There will be a parade beforehand celebrating the state's 200th birthday.

“Red, White, and Boom was already the largest Independence Day celebration in the Midwest,” said organizer Mike Collins. “We think it will be even bigger this year as we celebrate our Bicentennial.”

Mr. White said city officials expect about 500,000 people to attend the parade and fireworks.

Carmelita Boyer, a regional Bicentennial organizer for central Ohio, said suburbs like Reynoldsburg and Westerville hold their own fireworks shows every year, but this year the shows also will feature bicentennial themes.

“These festivals will provide something for the entire family,” Ms. Boyer said.

On July 5, the city will use another regular event in Columbus' Short North area, the annual Gallery Hop, and turn it into the Bicentennial Bell Hop. The Gallery Hop is a time where guests visit the various art galleries in the popular restaurant, bar and gallery district, just north of downtown Columbus.

This year, a Bicentennial celebration will be added at nearby Goodale Park. There will also be a family festival, most likely at the Franklin Park Conservatory.