The city's annual Independence Day fireworks display is scheduled for Monday, July 3, and Reiman Gardens will extend its hours and offer free admission after 6 p.m. Folding chairs and coolers with food and drinks are allowed, but fireworks (including sparklers) are prohibited within the gardens.
Spectators who watch the fireworks display from the ISU recreational fields and parking lots are asked to collect and dispose of sparkler wires and other trash to ensure the safety of the surrounding area, which is used for sporting events. The fireworks display begins at dusk and will be rescheduled to July 5 in the event of inclement weather.
Ames' Independence Day celebration continues on July 4 with a pancake breakfast (8:30-10:30 a.m., City Hall), 5K run/walk (8 a.m., Ada Hayden Park), talent competition (9-11 a.m., Main Street and Burnett Avenue) and parade (11 a.m., downtown route).
Fireworks reminder
Although the sale of fireworks was legalized this year by the Iowa Legislature, a 1987 Ames city ordinance remains in effect that prohibits using them within city limits. Violation of the ordinance could result in a misdemeanor charge with a minimum $250 fine.
