Where and when to watch fireworks this Fourth — or fifth — of July

BUCKHANNON – One item on most folks’ wish list for a Fourth of July celebration is to enjoy a fireworks display. Those living in and around the area will have some choices of where to enjoy this event in 2020, even though many of the patriotic explosive shows have been postponed this year.

According to history.com, the first fireworks were used as early as 200 B.C. and the tradition of setting off fireworks on July 4 began in Philadelphia, Pa. on July 4, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day. That night, ship’s cannons were said to have also fired a 13-gun salute in honor of the original 13 colonies.

Also, the Pennsylvania Evening Post reported ‘at night there was a grand exhibition of fireworks which began and ended with 13 rockets on the Commons, and it was said the city was beautifully illuminated.’

The article said that same night, the Sons of Liberty set off fireworks above the Boston Common.

Fireworks over Buckhannon will spark beauty in the sky on Sunday, July 5, 2020 beginning at nightfall.

The City of Buckhannon is hosting the event and officials said this year, the celebration will not include the traditional events at Jawbone Park nor the Main Street celebration due to COVID-19 and social distancing protocols.

In a press release issued by the City of Buckhannon, administration of Buckhannon said they encourage everyone to watch the display outdoors while maintaining at least six feet between people (other than families living in the same household) or watch from vehicles. They remind those who will be outdoors and near others to please wear a face mask.

In Buckhannon, city officials recommend watching the colorful sky celebration in parking lots including the ones at CVS, Citizens Bank of West Virginia, Community Bank, Premier Bank, Walgreen’s and Walmart. The release said parking in other lots in the city could be available as long as permission is granted from the business owners.

However, residents looking for fireworks on July 4 will not need to travel too far as a display has been scheduled for July 4, 2020 in Weston, beginning at approximately 10:15 p.m. The Lewis County CVB announced the show has been orchestrated thanks to generous donors in the community who wish to remain anonymous.

The Weston fireworks show will originate at the Robert L. Bland Middle School Field, but officials say there will be no entry into the field except by fire department personnel. They said the gates will be locked and those viewing the show are not allowed to park in or be in the school parking lot.

West Virginians wishing to view the bright explosions in the sky should watch the show from the sidewalks, parking on the streets or in parking lots at the discretion of the business owners. Officials remind folks to practice safe social distancing.

Lewis County will have another fireworks display beginning at approximately 9:30 p.m. at Stonewall Resort. Officials at the resort said in order to promote social distancing and best practices for the safety of their guests, this year’s firework display will be limited to registered overnight guests at the lodge, campground and cottages as well as any boaters who are on the lake.

Firework enthusiasts who don’t mind traveling a few miles are welcome in Fairmont for their Independence Day Fireworks Display on Saturday, July 4 beginning at 10 p.m. Kris Cinalli, Marion County Administrator, said the firework display will be at Palatine Park in Fairmont; however, there will only be a limited amount of people who will be admitted to the park to assure social distancing and safety.

“Folks are invited to watch from the East Side of Fairmont and watch from the sidewalks and parking lots, if the owners of the lots give their permission,” Cinalli said. “A great place to view the display is from the East Side of the High-Level Bridge.”

Cinalli said there will be entertainment and vendors available at Palatine Park prior to the fireworks display and everyone attending is reminded that all CDC and Marion County Health Department guidelines will be followed, and social distancing will be enforced.