Articles Tagged: Fireworks

Cedar Rapids first responders saw a significant drop in fireworks-related citations and calls for service this year in June and the first week of July than in 2024, but an increase in fires after state legislation was passed earlier this year preventing cities from banning fireworks on July 3 and 4.

Community members gathered at Marion’s Lowe Park Thursday night for Fireworks and Fireflies, which featured live music, food, a petting zoo, face painting and inflatables

Fireworks vendors and law enforcement alike are gearing up in preparation for Independence Day celebrations after new legislation was passed this year prohibiting Iowa cities from banning fireworks on July 3 and 4 and Dec. 31.

In its 34th year, the Iowa City Jazz Festival continues to draw acclaimed performers from across the country.

July 1 is the beginning of the fiscal year and the date new laws take effect, unless otherwise stated. Iowa’s majority-Republican General Assembly this year passed more than 170 laws dealing with education, firearms, crime, health care, paid family leave and more. Here’s what goes into effect this week.

Eastern Iowa Independence Day celebrations rocket through July 6

Rising costs — for fireworks and many of the services associated with hosting a fireworks show — have prompted the Cedar Boat Club to announce the cancellation of its Ellis Harbor fireworks show in July.

At least six Iowa cities have them: Cedar Rapids, Coralville, Iowa City, University Heights, Dubuque and Ames. The law takes effect Aug. 16.

Local governments across the state would be limited in restricting firework usage under legislation advanced by Iowa House lawmakers Monday. The bill would prohibit cities and counties from banning the use of fireworks on July 3 and 4 and Dec. 31.

Also, under a proposed bill, the death penalty could be used for killing a law enforcement officer

Also, the Iowa Senate is advancing new legislation that would require the teaching of fetal development in health and human growth classes

Also, Iowa City schools piloting use of three electric vehicles at City, Liberty and West High School to transport students in the Transition Alliance Program.

The Cedar Rapids Fire Department saw a slight increase in fireworks related calls between July 1 and July 5 this year, compared with last year. But the calls are still down from previous years.

Fireworks lit up the sky in Cedar Rapids Thursday evening, in celebration of Independence Day.

With months of planning and many hours of set-up, here’s a look behind the scenes that ensure Freedom Festival goes out with a bang.