The Red, White & Beach community drive to support the Fourth of July Fireworks and Parade on Fort Myers Beach has officially launched. What’s Up FMB, working in partnership with the town, is organizing the drive. Here are all the details.
According to What’s Up FMB President the 4th of July fireworks and parade aren’t automatically scheduled. “So we’re stepping up as a community to help make them happen. The good news is we’ve got some strong momentum right out of the gate.”
So far:
– The Whale donated the first $25,000, which secured the fireworks deposit
– The fireworks barge (a $44,000 cost) has been donated
– Mike Miller will be matching individual donations dollar-for-dollar, up to an additional $20,000.
The total cost for the fireworks and parade is $129,000, which covers fireworks, permitting, safety services, operational support, and parade logistics. The drive will run through May 31.
If the full funding level is reached for the 4th of July, the fireworks and parade will move forward as planned. If we fall short, options will be evaluated, including a scaled down fireworks show. Any funds not used for the Fourth of July will be reserved for future fireworks, including New Year’s Eve.
Get more details and donate HERE
Waste of money and a danger to pets and wildlife. Do you really need to see another firework, grow up already. Also China, a better country now, has drone shows not fireworks anymore. Keep paying taxes goy cattle.
Lee County takes hundreds of thousands of dollars from bed taxes on the island. Why don’t they pay for the fireworks?
Is it not an economic driver to bring people to the island for the JULY 4th holiday? How much money does the bed tax take in on that weekend? I’m thinking almost enough to pay for the fireworks.
I’m guess it’s more important to make commercials to play up north!!
Great initiative! The Town got it right last year: under our current circumstances, it was inappropriate to use public funds for the NYE fireworks. I think it’s great that they are now cooperating with a private fundraising effort! A big high-five to The Whale and the Millers!! In the past, business owners dragged their feet every year, waiting for the Town to foot the bill. I know business conditions still aren’t stellar, but I hope those business owners who have the means will step up. Margaritaville? Carmine?
Love The Whale! The Millers are 5 star people!
The businesses reap the benefits of the fireworks show keeping the customers here longer, so it makes sense that they should pony up.
At this time I really don’t think our Town needs to be donating or using money for Fireworks. There are more important issues that need addressing.
What’s Up FMB is working to fund the fireworks through fundraising for the town. The Town is not donating any $$. We will find our donors through businesses and tourists who do not want to miss out on this iconic Independence Day on FMB.
Hi Dawn! Where would FMB without Mike and you!! (Reading is fundamental 🙃😉)
Can you look into a light show of fireworks. Ft myers is doing them manly due to its safer for the environment and for people and pets.