Dos and Don’ts for Red, White and BOOM!

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Red, White and BOOM! is back in downtown Columbus on July 3.

It’s bound to be an exciting day, but there are some things to keep in mind before you head to the riverfront for the show.

Your experience could be made better or worse based on how you prepare for the day.

Shawn Verhoff, co-executive director of Red, White and BOOM!, said the 2024 fireworks show will be 26 minutes long and you aren’t going to want to miss it. That’s why he recommends getting downtown as early as possible.

“You can come down early and stake out your spot,” Verhoff said. “When I say stake out, I mean don’t put stakes into the park. There are irrigation systems all over the place. Go ahead and lay out your blanket; go ahead and bring your cooler.”

You can set up your viewing spot with blankets, tarps, lawn chairs, coolers and pop-up tents as early as 6 p.m. on July 2nd, the day before BOOM.

There is more space this year with Bicentennial Park back open after a year of renovations, so there is more room for people to spread out.

But what about things you should not bring?

“Let us provide the fireworks and please do not bring your own,” Verhoff said. “The other thing we really ask people not to bring is their pets. It’s a hot day, loud noises and we really do not want your dogs, your cats, anything else around.”

Verhoff also recommended bringing water, but food and drinks will be available at the concession stands.

With Red, White and BOOM! being in July, be prepared for the sun.

“Wear lighter colors, bring your sunscreen, bring your hats, bring your sunglasses,” Verhoff said. “Protect yourself from the sun as well as be kind to everyone else. If your neighbor looks a little sunburnt, give them a little sunscreen.”

If you plan to drive downtown, Verhoff said the earlier you get there, the easier it will be to park. You can also take a taxi, rideshare or use COTA’s Zoom to Boom to get you there.

“Come down early, get your spot and enjoy the event,” he said.

For more information on Red, White and BOOM! 2024, click here.

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