FAQ on Freedom Festival fireworks; no makeup in case of rain

The Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival Fireworks are back downtown this year after two years at Kirkwood Community College following the flood.

Here's all you need to know if you're attending the Downtown Cedar Rapids fireworks:

What: 2010 Celebration of Freedom Fireworks

When: Sunday, July 4, 2010, 9:00-10:00 p.m.

Where: Downtown Cedar Rapids

Q: What has changed since the fireworks were last in downtown Cedar Rapids?

A: This year, the fireworks will be launched from the grassy plaza area on May's Island between the Veteran's Memorial Building and the Linn County Courthouse. The launch site change was necessitated after the existing barge arrangement that had been used for a number of years was no longer an option.

Q: So where do I go to watch the Cedar Rapids downtown fireworks?

A: Expanded fireworks viewing options will be available along and including 1st Street SW from the corner of 2nd Av SW southerly to the Parking Lot 20 (Trolley Lot) area north of the Cedar Rapids Police Department headquarters building. Food and soft drinks and activities will also be located on the east side of the river.

“We understand that many fireworks fans are accustomed to viewing the annual display from favorite locations on the Second and Third Avenue bridges,” said Janet Wilhelm, Freedom Festival executive director. “Every effort is being made to provide new viewing vantage points as our community celebrates our nation's birthday. The flood of 2008 forced many changes upon our community. It's not unexpected that even though the Celebration of Freedom fireworks are returning to downtown Cedar Rapids this year, it will take several years to establish a new 'traditional' downtown venue. We hope everyone will remain flexible as we work to this end.”

Q: Where can I NOT go to watch the fireworks?

A: Since May's Island will be the staging area for fireworks, the Second and Third Avenue bridges will be closed to pedestrians and cars. First Street west will be closed to cars from Second Avenue to Fifth Avenue SW.

Q: Where should I park?

A: Parking will be a premium and citizens are encourage to park farther from the river.

When leaving after the fireworks, you are encouraged to drive away from the river before going north or south.

Q: There is rain in the forecast for Sunday. If it rains, will there be a make-up date?

A: No. There will be no make-up date in the event of rain. The Freedom Festival says they will wait until the last minute to cancel the fireworks, because they will only cancel if it is a downpour. IF the fireworks are canceled, the media will be notified, and the information will also be available on the Freedom Fest's website and via social media.

Q: Will the fireworks be televised or online?

A: Thanks for asking! You can watch the Cedar Rapids downtown fireworks on GazetteOnline.com as well as on KCRG Local 9.2.

Map of Cedar Rapids Freedom Festival fireworks area (boundaries represent approximate areas and are not necessarily to scale):