Ozark County Chamber to host fireworks show in Gainesville July 4

For the first time in recent memory, a professional fireworks show will light up the Gainesville sky this Fourth of July — and this year, they share the stage with bucking bulls and cowboy boots. Fireworks spectators should mark their calendars for dark (approximately 9:30 p.m.) Friday, July 4, for the first annual “Fireworks Over the Square” in Gainesville. Bring a lawn chair and find a spot downtown to view what is sure to be an exciting show. 

The dazzling display will be set off on the ridge on the opposite side of Highway 160 from the Gainesville Saddle Club by Kirk and Segra Stephens from Pontiac’s own Foggy Bottom Fireworks.  The fireworks crew shot off a smaller show from the same location last year in coordination with a Saints of Valor event, held at the rodeo grounds. Organizers say it was a big success, and viewing was fantastic from the square. They say just to make sure the courthouse isn’t blocking the view of the hillside. 

Another fantastic location to watch the fireworks will be at the Gainesville Saddle Club Arena, where a Tommy Rand Rodeo is being held in coordination with the event. The rodeo will be held beginning at 7 p.m. both Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5. But those attending Friday night’s rodeo will get a special treat when the rodeo pauses at dark for the fireworks. 

Admission into the rodeo is $10 for adults, $5 for those age 6 to 12 and 5 and under free. Events will include mutton bustin’, broncs, open and junior bull riding, mini broncs, mini bull riding, tie-down roping, team roping, open and cowgirl break-away, goat untying and pony barrels, open and junior poles and open and goat tying. For more information on the rodeo, visit www.randrodeo.com. 

There is no charge for those who don’t attend the rodeo and plan to watch the fireworks from the square, area roadways or other public locations. 

The Fireworks over the Square event is being organized by the Ozark County Chamber of Commerce with several local businesses sponsoring the show. 

“A big thank you to the local businesses who have stepped up to support this event in its first year. We hope to make this an annual tradition,” Chamber member Doug Hawkins told the Times. 

The Chamber is currently hosting a gun raffle to raise proceeds for the fireworks, and Chamber members say buying a ticket is the best way to donate or help support the event. Tickets are $25 each, and only 200 tickets will be sold. Three winners will be chosen. The first will have his or her choice of three guns: a Remington Model 700 .243, a Browning A-bolt 300 Win Mag or a Ruger Security 9mm. The second raffle winner will be able to choose between the remaining two, and the third will get the gun that is left. 

Tickets are available at Shelter Insurance on the Gainesville square or from any Chamber of Commerce board member. The winners don’t need to be present.