Montgomery News Staff | Posted July 3, 2024
Some 10,000 people are estimated to have attended Montgomery Township's annual 4th of July fireworks on Thursday, June 27 at Montgomery High School.
Montgomery Recreation Department Director John Groeger, who organizes the event, said, "I have always been very bad at estimating numbers, but a rough estimate for this year would probably be 10,000-ish or more people."
No one could remember a larger crowd for the event, which is totally funded by private donations and vendor fees. The firework display alone costs $14,500, Groeger said. "We use a company called D&M Fireworks for our show (and have for many years). They do a phenomenal job on putting together an awesome display." The company is based in Bally, PA.
"This year’s event was my second year at the helm," Groeger said. "It is one of my favorite events because it is truly all about teamwork. While Recreation plans the fireworks (purchase of the display, band, stage vendors, etc) police, fire and public works department are all very heavily involved on the parking, traffic, and control sides."
Festivities began at 6 pm and entry to the event was free. In addition to the fireworks, there were plenty of things to do. Vendors sold funnel cake, ice cream, kettle corn, and virgin Piña Coladas served in hollowed-out pineapples with American flags and fancy cocktail umbrellas.
"This year we had 27 vendors," Groeger said. "Each vendor pays a fee to attend and those fees go directly into our fireworks trust account. "
Many danced to local band, Black Tie Groove, as celebratory vibes and favorite songs filled the air. People sang along to Stevie Wonder's "Signed Sealed Delivered," Marvin Gaye's "Ain't no mountain High Enough," and "Let's Go Crazy" by Prince, to name a few.
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Kids played games of chance, and families visited booths sponsored by local businesses, political parties, and non-profit organizations, including the Montgomery and Rocky Hill first responders.
In addition to providing safety and ambulances at the fireworks, Montgomery EMS squad members also set up a booth to fundraise and attract new volunteers. “We sell pizza, it's kind of a tradition of the squad, and of course we try to fundraise. We try to spread the word about what we do and the fact that we do it for free,” added Ron Gershal.
Director Groeger summed up the event, saying, "Fun, free events like this give everyone the opportunity to come out on a beautiful evening to be with friends and family and really enjoy the kick off of summer."
Groeger added, "We do push pretty hard for donations. We have a great reputation for having one of if not THE best shows in the area. I want to continue to keep that tradition going. As of today we have raised just shy of $20,000."
Groeger is still accepting donations.
"We do take online donations through our website year round," he said. Donate here: https://www.montgomerynj.gov/parksrec/page/make-donationsindividual-sponsorship .
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