In a novel approach to celebrating the Fourth of July, several American cities have chosen to supplant customary fireworks with awe-inspiring drone light exhibitions this year. Amid serious environmental triggers and fire risks, Salt Lake City, Utah, led the way by orchestrating its premier drone show on Independence Day. This new celebration style is an attempt by the city's Mayor, Erin Mendenhall, to curb the area's significant wildfire threats and lessen air pollution induced by pyrotechnics.
Looking at Utah's average wildfire count, the gravity of the decision becomes apparent. Each year, Utah encounters 800 to 1,000 such disasters, thus earning a spot among the most wildfire-prone states in the US, according to the Utah Department of Public Safety.
A similar course of action was followed by Boulder, Colorado, currently wrestling with wildfire season. Tradition was traded for innovation as they hosted their inaugural nighttime drone show. This marked a significant departure from their pre-pandemic festivity, 'Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast', a staple since 1941.
Boulder's tilt towards drones wasn't just a random pivot. It was fueled by an amalgam of factors: climbing fire risks, climate change, and logistical difficulties amid the pandemic. Moreover, a recent local fire incident and the demise of their fireworks vendor made the decision easier, reveals Dan Kingdom, a local event planner.
California wasn’t left behind in this trend. Communities like Lake Tahoe, La Jolla, and Ocean Beach also introduced synchronized drone events. Jeff Stein of Drone Studios highlighted the advantages of such shows: significantly less noise and pollution. Particularly relevant in military-dense San Diego, drones offer fireworks-like spectacles, display engaging aerial animations, and tell compelling stories through motion graphics, a feat unachievable by traditional pyrotechnics.
