CARLSBAD, N.M. – The City of Carlsbad is opting to move forward with its city-organized annual fireworks show on the Fourth of July, following a thorough reevaluation with the State of New Mexico.
“This is an extremely important celebration for our citizens, and we’re determined to put together a high quality show that safely celebrates our nation’s independence,” Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway said.
Mayor Janway thanked members of the public for providing input, and he thanked state officials for their assistance with updating associated COVID-Safe Practices guidelines.
“After listening to feedback from several members of our City Council and from our residents, we doubled up on our efforts to make it work,” Janway said. “We’ve been in contact with the Governor’s office on several occasions since, and we are putting together a safe plan for the fireworks show using the provided guidelines.”
Janway explained that this year’s program will focus on a “high aerial” display, so that fireworks can be viewed from across Carlsbad, providing residents with the ability to view the entire show from their homes or vehicles.
Residents who elect to watch the show from public areas are strongly encouraged to practice social distancing guidelines to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Additional viewing areas throughout the city will also be set aside for members of the public who would like to park and watch from inside their car or truck.
The annual city-provided fireworks show will begin slightly after dusk on the Fourth of July. A concert series, boat parade and water show, also all originally planned for the holiday, remain postponed. A street parade through downtown, organized by private citizens, is still planned for 9 a.m. Additional details will be released in the upcoming weeks leading up to the celebration.