In 2024, Milwaukee County canceled its long-running July 3 fireworks display due to lack of sponsorship. This, as they say, made a lot of people very angry and was widely regarded as a bad move.
So what does Milwaukee County have planned for July 3, 2025? A drone show! That’s right: no fireworks, but a ton of drones! Let’s argue about it for some reason!
According to a press release, the drone show will take place over McKinley Beach and along the nearby lakeshore. It will feature three waves of drones lasting about 14 minutes each, “blending cutting-edge drone technology with an original synchronized soundtrack for a dazzling 45-minute performance.” Viewers can expect “awe-inspiring images of Milwaukee’s most iconic landmarks, and other patriotic and local themes.” The fantastic-sounding-but-probably-controversial-for-no-good-reason fun will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m.
“Milwaukee County is at its best when we come together to create memorable, inclusive experiences for everyone. We’re proud to bring the community together for this first-of-its-kind drone show, highlighting not just our beautiful lakefront but the creativity and collaboration that make Milwaukee County so special,” says Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “Thanks to the Milwaukee Parks Foundation’s incredible efforts to secure sponsorships, this drone show is another example of how we’re investing in our parks, our neighborhoods, and our shared sense of community pride.”
Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum hosted a drone show in 2024, to celebrate its 100th anniversary. It was great! Check it out! Though if you’re arguing about this you likely didn’t make it this far into the article!
Here’s some more info about the July 3 drone show, via the press release:
Public Viewing Areas: Viewing areas for the drone show will be available at McKinley Beach and McKinley Park, offering expansive lakefront views for attendees. The show will also be visible along Milwaukee’s shoreline, creating a spectacular backdrop for all who gather to watch.
Important Event Parking Details:
• Parking Start Time: 2 p.m., first come first served
• Parking Fee: $20 per vehicle
• Coast Guard Station Lot and McKinley Tennis Courts Lot: See event map
• Free Handicapped Parking: Available on Lincoln Memorial Drive in designated spaces
Important Event Access Details:
• Access Start Time: 2:00 p.m., first come first served
• Viewing Area Reservation: Begins at 2:00 p.m., no early access permitted
• Overnight Parking/Camping: Strictly prohibited on July 2nd and 3rd
• Designated Viewing Areas: See event map for locations
Amenities:
• Food & Beverages: Guests can look forward to a variety of food vendors and beverage options, including local favorites.
• Restrooms: Portable and accessible restrooms along with those at the McKinley Marina will be available.
Safety & Launch Area:
• To ensure everyone’s safety, roads near the event area may close just before and during the show, and the drone launch zone near the pier will be restricted. Local law enforcement, Milwaukee County Park Rangers, and the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department will be on hand to keep everything safe and fun.
If needed, a make-up date is scheduled for July 6. Oh, and the presenting sponsor of the show? Michael F. Hupy.
“The July 3rd lakefront celebration is an important event for thousands of community members. I was committed to doing whatever it takes to bring it back this year. I am grateful for the return of the celebration with a drone show, and I am honored to be the presenting sponsor,” says Hupy.
Oh, and one MORE thing. Various city and county parks are still hosting July 4 fireworks. Find them HERE. Thanks for arguing!
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