Milwaukee County Independence Day celebrations underway, with more to come
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Fourth of July is fast approaching and celebrations of our nation’s independence are already underway in our area, with plenty more to come.
Bringing in around 6,000 people each year, the West Allis Independence Day Parade is a sea of red, white and blue.
“To remember those, you know, that this is possible, that they lost their lives for us, that we can be able to come here every year,” said Larry Setum, a parade attendee. “It’s a yearly tradition, me, my grandkids now, and my daughter and her fiancé.”
This longstanding tradition features marching bands, dancers and of course everyone’s favorite, candy.
“Fireworks, friends and freedom, that’s what it’s all about,” said Becky Setum, a parade attendee.
However, this year instead of fireworks, hundreds of drones will light up the Milwaukee lakefront for the county's first-ever drone show on July 3.
"Trust me, you have never seen a show like this,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “It’s going to be featuring some of Milwaukee’s most iconic landmarks. You’re going to see patriotic displays and a little bit of surprises at the end that are sure to bring some 'oohs' and 'ahs' from the crowd."
Anticipating more than 100,000 people to flock to the shore, officials say this new experience is the future for the city, already planning on drones for next year’s event.
"Drones are cleaner, they’re greener, they’re safer, and they don’t produce smoke particles and debris like fireworks have in the past," said Crowley.
The drone show kicks off July 3 around 9:15 p.m. The main viewing area is McKinley Beach, with additional vantage points in McKinley Park and nearby trails.