With the Fourth of July about to arrive, Glendale officials are reminding residents that personal fireworks remain illegal and that there are three opportunities to view professional pyrotechnic shows in the area.
Local fire officials urge residents not to launch their own fireworks this weekend, even the “safe and sane” varieties. Besides posing a personal safety hazard, explosive devices also are a fire risk, especially in the heavily wooded foothills of Glendale. Statistics show that fireworks are among the most dangerous of all consumer products. Even handheld sparklers, which many consider safe, can reach 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and cause serious burns and fires.
Per the municipal code, those found to be in violation of fireworks laws can be punished with up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
The city is launching its own fireworks show — Jewel City Sparkles — this year, particularly to mark the end of most of the restrictions prompted by coronavirus pandemic. City officials invite residents to spend Sunday evening in the downtown area, where al fresco dining remains and businesses are mostly opened. Meanwhile, fireworks will be launched from the parking structure near Harvard Street and Brand Boulevard starting at 9 p.m. Caruso, owner and operator of the Americana at Brand, is partly sponsoring the show, which does not require tickets and is free for viewing for anyone in the area.
The Crescenta Valley Fireworks Association will also host a show — for the 14th straight year — at 9 p.m. Sunday. Spectators cannot be on the field at Crescenta Valley High School this year, but there will be many places to watch the show from outside the campus and around the valley. The association plans to launch fireworks to higher altitudes this year to allow a wider range of residents to view them.
The group’s show is entirely donation and sponsorship driven. Fans are encouraged to donate by mailing a check payable to CV Fireworks to 2629 Foothill Blvd., #179, La Crescenta, CA 91214, or by visiting its website at cvfireworks.com.
Finally, the Oakmont Country Club is hosting a private fireworks show, also beginning at 9 p.m. The fireworks are being launched on the Oakmont property and will last for approximately 20 minutes.
