04/30/2026
Info and food for thought.
This event can't happen without you.
Let's take a minute to fix some misconceptions about this event:
"My taxes pay for this" -- False. Since 1963, your taxes have never paid for the parade, entertainment or fireworks display on the 4th of July. Every dollar has been fundraised.
"The city and park district organize and pay for the 4th of July event' -- False. It all started with a small committee led by Joe Marino over 60 years ago and is now led by his Grandson and Great-Nephew. This committee is a group of volunteers that organizes the event. We do work with our city and park district to insure public safety and space usage, which we are overly thankful for. But it is 100% organized and fundraised by a volunteer (civic) committee.
"It's just Rockford. There's nothing special about this firework show" -- False. That has never been the case. Joe always worked hard with the leading pyro companies to bring Rockford cutting edge pyrotechnics and we have continued to do so. Average budget in the Midwest for a 4th of July show is $20,000 - $30,000 for pyro for 30 minutes and less for 15 minutes (which is more typical). We always spend $60,000 - $65,000 minimum and include a synched soundtrack plus air it live on TV. There is nothing 'regular' about this show. Our show has been 30 minutes for the last 30 of our 63 year history. It's a Rockford Tradition to be proud of! Some people get "used" to something and forget how special some traditions really are.
"I can't get a hold of anyone to help..." Let's fix that! You can contact us via email 4thandlights@gmail if you'd like to participate as a volunteer or to find out how to help us fundraise or to make a donation.
We can't do this without you, the community.
This event has always been FOR THE COMMUNITY, BY THE COMMUNITY. - Ted & Tom (TnT)
