Fortuna is set to kick off the Independence Day celebrations with its 16th Annual Fireworks Festival, scheduled for July 3rd at Newburg Park. The family-friendly event will run from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, offering a variety of activities for all ages.
Attendees can enjoy a range of attractions, including a BBQ hosted by Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ, food trucks, craft vendors, and a lively dance party. The highlight of the evening will be the Pyro Spectacular fireworks show, which will light up the sky around 10:00 pm.
One of the main attractions this year is the return of the Fireworks BBQ, where guests can purchase a half-pound tri-tip sandwich with corn on the cob, chips, and water for $15. Alternatively, BBQ sliders or hot dog meals are available for $10. The BBQ is designed to be quick and convenient, with no wait for food.
Food Truck Row in the Newburg parking lot will feature popular vendors like The Patron Kitchen, Taqueria Martinez, and Caps Food Shack, along with sweet treats such as mini donuts, cotton candy, and ice cream.
Children can enjoy wristbands for $10, which provide three hours of unlimited fun from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The wristbands cover 15 bounce houses, three mechanical bulls, a petting zoo, balloon animals, and other activities. The Girl Scouts will also bring back the popular rock wall. Parents will need to sign a liability waiver for each child purchasing a wristband.
For added convenience, wristbands and parking can be purchased online through Eventbrite.
The festivities will continue with a dance party starting at 8:30 pm, featuring a light show by DX3 Productions. The party will lead into the fireworks display, which will begin around 10:00 pm.
Event organizers urge attendees to bring chairs or blankets for a comfortable viewing experience. They also ask everyone to use the trash and recycling bins provided to keep the park clean. Bathrooms are available near the playground.
To ensure safety, organizers remind visitors not to light fireworks, sparklers, or grills in the park’s grassy areas. The Fortuna Police Department has also advised attendees to check for updated road closures on their Facebook page. Parking is available for $5 per car in the field off Rohnerville, past Newburg Park. The Newburg parking lot will be reserved for food trucks and fireworks viewing.
