FAQs

About the Fireworks

HOW DOES THIS EVENT COMPARE WITH OTHERS IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS?

Up to 200,000 people typically experience this event, making it the largest single day event in Central Illinois.

It also ranks in the top 2% of fireworks displays in the country, and is the largest in Illinois.

WHERE CAN I HEAR THE SOUNDTRACK TO THE FIREWORKS?

If you are not close to one of the sound systems along either the Peoria or East Peoria riverfronts, you can tune any radio to 93.3 The Drive, 104.9 The Wolf, Mix 106.9, KZ 102.3, or 102.7 Super Hits. For a new twist on the event, 1470-100.3 WMBD and Freedom 95.9-AM 1290 will be talking through the fireworks show with commentary live from the riverfront by Wayne Miller and Lee Hall.

WHO ACTUALLY SHOOTS THE FIREWORKS?

Pyrotechnico, one of the most respected fireworks companies in the world, will take over the show at 9:30pm and launch the largest fireworks display in the State of Illinois! Over 600 hours of design and preparation have gone into this performance alone. Pyrotechnico has many years of experience including displays for the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls and Chicago Bears, Cleveland Cavaliers, Venetian Night in Chicago, and even a show for the Queen of England. They will do upwards of 800 shows on the 4th of July.

WHAT IF THERE IS BAD WEATHER OR AN OTHER EMERGENCY?

In the event of rain, high winds, or other unforseen circumstances, the "rain date" is July 5, at the same times and locations as scheduled for the 4th.

Urgent information will be broadcast on speakers up and down the riverfronts and on all Midwest Communications radio stations: 1470-100.3 WMBD, 93.3 The Drive, 104.9 The Wolf, Mix 106.9, KZ 102.3, 102.7 Super Hits and Freedom 95.9 - AM 1290.

Pricing Questions

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET INTO RED, WHITE AND BOOM?

Absolutely free on the 4th of July - it is our gift to Central Illinois! There is admission to the Peoria riverfront concert on July 3.

Parking Questions

Will Parking Be An Issue?

There are thousands of parking spaces covering both sides of the river, along with several parking decks in downtown Peoria. There will also be lots of on street parking in downtown Peoria due to the holiday. Handicapped parking will be available at the city lot across from the CAT parking garage at the foot of Hamilton Boulevard at Water Street in Peoria. In East Peoria, handicapped parking spaces are located in the parking lot adjacent to RiverFront Park. Additional designated spaces will be in the area across from the parking lot parallel to the river. All of these spaces are available on a first come, first served basis. Vehicles must display the proper handicapped license plate or mirror tag. No RV or trailer parking will be allowed in the RiverFront Park parking lot. In addition, no parking of any kind will be allowed on Conference Center Drive near the Embassy Suites.

What You Can Bring

CAN WE BRING BLANKETS AND CHAIRS?

Yes, in fact, you’re encouraged to come early and find a spot for the whole family. Several businesses will be open that day.

DO WE NEED TO BRING FOOD AND DRINKS?

There will be plenty of vendors lining the riverfront in Peoria and East Peoria, with lots to eat and drink. No alcoholic beverages of any kind are permitted on the Peoria riverfront unless purchased from a licensed vendor (with proper ID). No alcohol will be allowed in Riverfront Park in East Peoria. Coolers, backpacks and other containers are subject to search by police.

Grills or open flames are also prohibited for the event.

WHAT SHOULD I NOT BRING?

Personal fireworks of any kind, including sparklers, are prohibited on the riverfront grounds. Choose Greater Peoria Red, White and BOOM, presented by i3 Broadband will have all the fireworks you will need. With heavy crowds expected, please do not bring bikes or rollerblades to the riverfront. Dogs and other family pets are prohibited except for ESA Certified Service Animals.

The use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles is strictly prohibited in the vicinity of the riverfronts and between the Murray Baker Bridge and the Bob Michel Bridge.

In addition to these: outside alcohol, cannabis or other illicit drugs, grills, skateboards/bikes/rollerblades/scooters, parking of vehicles on the sidewalk, firearms or weapons of any kind, open flames, laser pointers, and furniture other than lawn chairs are also prohibited.