Thousands line Milwaukee's lakefront in anticipation of annual fireworks display

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Thousands of people are waiting all day for fireworks to begin. The annual Milwaukee Lakefront Fireworks Display will be launched from barges on Lake Michigan.

At 9:30 p.m. Milwaukee’s fireworks show begins and is expected to last 45 minutes. Hundreds of tents have taken over Veterans Park, many excited for Wednesday’s festivities.

“Oh man, we’re very excited to see the fireworks this year and every year,” said Sidney Moore of South Milwaukee.

“The fireworks are amazing, the colors, the lights and everyone just enjoying them together as a community is really awesome,” said Carri Torcivia, who camped out with family and friends.

Krystal Vomberg of West Allis has camped out for Milwaukee’s fireworks display for more than 35 years. The tradition is down to a science. Vomberg always has the same spot, which is reserved two or three days before.

We camp overnight, we bring firewood, enjoy the night before and then we have everything tore down before the fireworks. So it’s down to a science, we all pitch in,” said Vomberg.  

Vomberg is not the only one. 

“Make sure you get down here early and pack a lot of stuff,” said Torcivia.  

Milwaukee County Sheriff, Earnell Lucas, spent part of his day Wednesday patrolling the lakefront. Sheriff Lucas says all hands are on deck to make sure everyone has a safe Fourth of July weekend. He’s focused on traffic safety and underage drinking.

"It’s not an appropriate behavior for someone underage to be drinking, and we’re going to do everything we can to stamp out that type of behavior,” said Sheriff Lucas.

Even with enforcement underway, Sheriff Lucas wants law enforcement to enjoy the festivities. He says it’s one of upmost importance, celebrating America’s independence and the freedom to be with loved ones. 

“Not only do we hope that all of the public gets to enjoy it, but I encourage even our deputies and our officers to enjoy it as well,” adds Sheriff Lucas.

“Well it means a lot of things, it’s independence, it’s just celebrating America and it’s being together,” said Torcivia.

Milwaukee’s big fireworks display may be over Wednesday night, but there are more firework shows in the area Thursday night for the Fourth of July. You can find a list here.