Howard County To Host 'Pre-Pandemic' Fourth Of July Celebration
HOWARD COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- Howard County announced that it's expanding its Fourth of July celebration after it surpassed a milestone in its vaccination effort. More than 70 percent of the county's eligible residents are now vaccinated -- more than anywhere else in the state.
"Because of our incredible progress we are excited to bring back the fireworks to Downtown Columbia lakefront," said Calvin Ball, Howard County Executive.
County Executive Calvin Ball announced Wednesday that the fireworks event will now include food trucks, live bands and other entertainment because of their progress in Covid-19 vaccinations.
"So people I guess will be attending fireworks with no masks and family and everything it'll be a great time," said Marcia McNeeley of Columbia.
The fireworks show is 22 minutes long and will begin at 9:20 p.m. The music, food and fun will begin at 5:00 p.m. It's a summer celebration that many are looking forward to after an unusual Fourth of July last year.
"We didn't get to do anything last year. we just king of sat at home and this year there's actually going to be something to celebrate," said Kira Strunk of Columbia.
Officials tell us that even though the festivities won't begin until 5, people may begin coming at 3 to layout blankets and get that perfect spot to watch the fireworks.