How do I get tickets for the concerts?

Please refer to the concert page.

When do the activities begin?

On the 4th, the fun starts at 5 with vendors, live entertainment and more on each side of the river. The most spectacular synchronized fireworks show central Illinois has ever seen is scheduled to begin at 9:30.
Listen to the exclusive soundtrack on 1470 and 100.3 WMBD, 93.3 The Drive, The New 104.9 The Wolf, Lite Rock 107, 102.3 Max FM, and Goodtime Oldies 1290 and 102.7 WIRL.

How much does it cost to get into UnityPoint Health - Methodist Red, White and BOOM?

Absolutely free on the 4th of July. It is our gift to central Illinois. There is admission to the riverfront concerts.

Can we bring blankets and chairs?

Yes, in fact, you're encouraged to come early and find a spot for the whole family. Many businesses will be open that day.

What about food and drinks?

There will be plenty of vendors lining the riverfront in Peoria and East Peoria, with lots to eat and drink. There will even be
an alcohol-free zone at Liberty Park in Peoria. No alcoholic beverages of any kind are permitted on the riverfront unless
purchased from a licensed vendor (with proper ID). Coolers, backpacks and other containers are subject to search by
police. No alcohol will be allowed in Riverfront Park in East Peoria.

Where can I hear the soundtrack to the fireworks?

If you are not in proximity of some of the sound systems along the riverfront, you can tune any radio to 1470 and 100.3 WMBD, 93.3 The Drive, The New 104.9 The Wolf, Lite Rock 107, 102.3 Max FM, and Goodtime Oldies 1290 and 102.7 WIRL.

Will parking be an issue?

There are thousands of parking spaces covering both sides of the river, along with several parking decks in downtown
Peoria. There will also be lots of on the street parking in downtown Peoria due to the holiday. Handicapped parking will
be available at the city lot across from the CAT parking garage at the foot of Hamilton at Water in Peoria. In East Peoria
handicapped parking spaces are located in the parking lot adjacent to RiverFront Park. Additional designated spaces will
be in an area across from the parking lot parallel to the river. All of these spaces are available on a first come, first served
basis. Vehicles must display the proper handicapped license plate or mirror tag. No RV or trailer parking will be allowed in
the RiverFront Park parking lot. In addition, no parking of any kind will be allowed on the new Conference Drive near the
Embassy Suites.

How does this event compare with others in central Illinois?

Actually, it doesn't. Over 175,000 people experience the event, which makes it the largest single day event in central
Illinois. It also ranks in the top 3% of fireworks displays in the country, and is easily the largest in Illinois.

Who actually shoots the fireworks?

Melrose Pyrotechnics, one of the most respected companies in the world, will take over the show at 9:30, and launch approximately 8,000 shells! Over 600 hours of design and preparation have gone into this performance alone. Melrose
Pyrotechnics has many years of experience including displays for the Chicago White Sox, Bulls and Bears, Cleveland Cava-
liers, Venetian Night in Chicago, and even a show for the Queen of England. They will do upwards of 800 shows on the 4th
of July, with UnityPoint Health - Methodist Red, White and BOOM by far the largest.

What if it rains?

In the event of rain or high winds, Thursday July 5th has been reserved as the rain date. Same times and locations.

Anything else we need to know?

Personal fireworks of any kind, including sparklers, are prohibited on the riverfront grounds. UnityPoint Health - Methodist Red, White and
BOOM will have all the fireworks you’ll need. Also, with heavy crowds expected, please do not bring bikes, rollerblades and
family pets to the riverfront.