During an event brainstorming meeting of the Greater Tabor City Chamber of
Commerce some 37 years ago, an idea was born to hold a 4th of July Fireworks
Celebration that could be enjoyed by Tabor City, Columbus County and our
neighboring counties that wanted to come for a visit.
The Chamber Board members began planning this event and the following
summer the Inaugural Fireworks Celebration was held. Chamber Board Members
Jack Miller and Rick Worley took a little road trip and purchased $500 worth of
fireworks! Local entertainment was scheduled for a pre-show before the
fireworks were set off with the assistance of Tabor City Fire Department.
Through the years a lot has changed as more stringent guidelines have been put in
place regarding the disbursement of pyrotechnics, all of which are to make
everything as safe as possible for everyone. In addition to that change, it is
important to note that $500 would not go very far these days. It takes thousands
of dollars to do the display that we have and each year that number tends to
increase. We are beyond appreciative to each sponsor that generously gives to
help us keep this event alive and well.
The Greater Tabor City Chamber of Commerce continues to adhere to all local,
county, and state guidelines as they plan this this wonderful annual Independence
Day Celebration which is held near the 4
th of July. We are proud to be recognized
as the Columbus County Fireworks Celebration.
We would love for you to join us on Friday, June 30 at South Columbus High
School as we once again celebrate our nation’s independence with very talented
local entertainment and a beautiful patriotic display of fireworks! Hot dogs, soft
drinks, glow necklaces, and more will be available for purchase; however, there is
no admission fee to enter the gate…never has been and we continue to keep this
as a goal. The bleachers are usually packed, and the roadsides are lined with cars
of those who do not wish to or are unable to make the trek to come inside the
gate.
The best part is the amazing feeling in our chests that we all have when that
National Anthem is sung just before those fireworks light up night sky!